GENTRY, James Ray

GENTRY, James Ray., 16 year resident of Green Valley, passed away in Tucson, September 6, 2010. He is survived by his beloved wife, Robyn and his children: daughters, Cynthia Carter and Rebecca Meares; sons, James Jr. (Stacy), Ronald (Gloria), Patrick and Dieter. James was also survived by his sister, Jo Ruth (Charles) Booker and numerous grandchildren, nieces and nephews. His parents, Clovis Gentry and Velma Martin Gentry preceded him in death along with brother, Donald Gentry and stepson, Frank Bergman. Jim was born in Granite, Oklahoma July 9, 1934, but spent his working years in California as a licensed contractor and owner of Gentry Electric. He retired to Green Valley in 1994 where he spent the next 16 years as a member of the Green Valley Sheriff's Auxiliary Volunteers (S.A.V.). During this time he served as a patrol member, car commander and Emergency Response Team member. He was responsible for new building modifications while serving ten years as S.A.V. Deputy Director of the Field Operations Division. In 2001 he received a Pima County Sheriff's Commendation. In 2003, he was awarded the Elks Lodge S.A.V. Volunteer of the year. And in 2008 he received a Volunteer Service Medal from the Pima County Sheriff's Department. Jim was also a long time member of the Green Valley Elks Lodge #2592, a Third Degree Mason in Lodge #77, and member of the Green Valley Eastern Star Chapter #77. Jim was "one of a kind", possessing a huge heart beneath his gruff exterior. He will be loved and missed by all that knew him. A Funeral Service will be held in Tucson at EAST LAWN PALMS MORTUARY, Saturday, September 11, 2010 at 10:00 a.m. Viewing at EAST LAWN PALMS MORTUARY will be Friday, September 10, 2010 from 4:00 p.m. - 7:00 p.m. In lieu of flowers contributions may be made to the American Heart Association .