Ricky Gentry

COOKEVILLE CHAPEL

Ricky Glyn Gentry, a devoted son, father, brother, and friend, departed this world on November 8, 2024, at his residence in Cookeville, Tennessee. Born on December 13, 1958, in Cookeville, Ricky lived a life that was a harmonious blend of humor, kindness, and a gentle spirit. He was a loving son to Glyn and Joyce Whiteaker Gentry, who are left to cherish his memory along with the pride of his heart—his daughters, McKenzie Mapes and her husband Spensir, and Madison Thompson and her husband Garrett.

Ricky held a deep admiration for his daughters, often referring to them as "wonderful" and "dolls." His affection for them defined him as a father; his love was both tender and profound. He was not just a parent, but a friend and confidant who cherished every moment spent with them. In addition to his daughters, he also delighted in the joy brought to him by his grandchildren, Otto, Riot, and Axel Mapes, whose laughter filled his heart with boundless pride.

Education was a cornerstone of Ricky’s life. A 1976 graduate of Putnam Co Senior High, he went on to earn both his bachelor's and master's degrees in Accounting from Tennessee Tech University. His academic journey set the foundation for a career marked by diligence and excellence as a Certified Public Accountant. He worked in McMinnville and Nashville as an accountant, before returning to Cookeville in the early 2000s to open his accounting firm, Ricky Gentry, CPA.

Ricky's personality was multifaceted—humorous yet cantankerous at times, and always compassionate, sentimental, and dedicated. Friends and family remember him for his quick wit and joyful laughter followed by jokes he would often love to tell. His love for humor often balanced his rigorous approach to life and work, making him a cherished presence among those fortunate enough to know him.

A member of Stevens Street Baptist Church, Ricky's faith guided him through life. He was also an avid fan of the Queen music band, attending their annual conventions and even directing the Queen trivia portion of the event—a testament to his love for music and camaraderie. Athletic pursuits also played a significant role in Ricky's life; he was known as an accomplished and competitive player in tennis and racquetball. Additionally, he enjoyed playing cards, aspiring to capture beauty through photography, and indulging in his passion for baseball, visiting various MLB stadiums along the way. Ricky was also a devoted fan of Notre Dame and the Minnesota Vikings, proudly showcasing his team loyalty.

He is survived by his beloved parents, Glyn and Joyce Whiteaker Gentry; his treasured daughters, McKenzie and Madison; sons-in-law Spensir and Garrett; his grandchildren, Otto, Riot, and Axel; his sister, Kim Hanna and her husband, Kyle; and special aunts, Linda Whiteaker and Bonnie Fox, along with her husband Raymond. Ricky was also preceded in death by his uncle, Jimmy Whiteaker, and is survived by his first wife and the mother of his children, Lisa Gentry, and his former wife, Diane Gentry.

Family and friends are invited to honor Ricky’s life during the visitation on November 12, 2024, from 1:00 PM to 3:00 PM at Cookeville Chapel, located at 59 N Jefferson Avenue, Cookeville, TN 38501. A funeral service will follow later that day, beginning at 3:00 PM. Pastors Jimmy Arms and Tim Frank will officiate. Interment will follow at Crest Lawn Cemetery.

Kyle Hanna, Spensir Mapes, Garrett Thompson, Justin Matheney, Dustin Smith, Donnie King, Mike Shirley, and Phillip "Flip" Anderson will serve as pallbearers.

Memorial contributions are suggested to be made to Wounded Warrior Project https://www.woundedwarriorproject.org and/or to Cookeville Rescue Mission, https://www.cookevillerescuemission.org.

Hooper, Huddleston & Horner Funeral Home is in charge of arrangements. (931)526-6111. Share memories and condolences at www.hhhfunerals.com.