Robert Eugene Gentry, lovingly known to most as “Gene” some as “Grandpapa, Grandpa, Dad” and to one as, “Honey” entered into Heaven on February 20, 2026. For weeks before his passing, he was surrounded by family and friends that he loved deeply. He leaves behind a legacy of strength, service, and love.

During the Korean War, Gene proudly served his country as a paratrooper in the 101st Airborne Division and then was an AAA gun crewman with B Battery, 69th Artillery, at Fort Hamilton defending New York City.

Following his military service, Gene continued a life of public service as a deputy sheriff and later served on a GBI task force. He then went on to work and retire from General Motors. He carried himself with integrity, courage, and quiet strength in his every role.

He was a proud Freemason at the Matt Lodge 694 for 54 years and a faithful follower of Jesus since the age of 13. He loved baseball, fishing, woodworking, cheering on the UGA Bulldogs, and giving everyone a jolly rancher or two.

Of all the roles he served, being the cornerstone of his family was his favorite.

Gene was married to the love of his life, Oneida Braswell Gentry, for 67 years and leaves her waiting for their reunion in Heaven. He also leaves behind his adoring daughters, Neida Streit, and Donna Snyder (Bill), his grandchildren, Matthew Streit (Veronica), Tiffany Streit (Tyler Ellis), Brittany Reeves (Josh), Emily Toole (Brandon), and Seth Snyder (Hayley Ayers) and his great grandchildren, Jessica, Liam, Everly, Declan, and Ava. He also leaves behind many other family, friends, and friends who are family. We were all incredibly blessed to call him ours.

Funeral services will be held Monday, March 2, at 2:00 p.m. at the Ingram Funeral Home Chapel. Interment with military honors and masonic rites will follow at Sawnee View Gardens.

The family will receive friends at the funeral home Sunday, March 1, from 4:00 to 8:00 p.m. and Monday, March 2, from 1:00 p.m. until the time of the service.

Ingram Funeral Home, 210 Ingram Ave, Cumming, GA is in charge of arrangements.

Condolences may be expressed online at ingramfuneralhome.com.