CHARLESTON - Roland S. "Kayo" Gentry, 92, died at 2:15 p.m. Sept. 28, 2004, at the Charleston Manor.
Born Nov. 23, 1911, in Delta, son of the late James R. and Bertha Shell Gentry, he followed his grandfather and father's steps in the Gentry family business, the Charleston Heating and Plumbing Company. He worked with his family until 1943, at which time he became solely responsible for the full operation of the business. Mr. "Kayo" was known in Charleston and the surrounding area for his selfless dedication to his high standard of service in always doing a job well. At age 80, he "retired," but could constantly be seen going and coming from jobs until the age of 88. Upon his retirement, the City of Charleston presented him a plaque of appreciation for his many years of service.
In 1978, he was honored with acceptance into the Southeast Missouri Baseball Hall of Fame, being known as one of the best pitchers in Southeast Missouri. He was a member of the Charleston Country Club for many years, loved his golf game and was also an avid fisherman. He was of the Methodist belief.
On May 11, 1937, he married Frances Ohmes who survives of the home.
Other survivors include: one daughter and son-in-law, Julie and Terry Hequembourg of Charleston; one son and daughter-in-law, David and Rebecca Gentry of Colorado Springs, Colo.; one brother and sister-in-law, Harry and Wilma Gentry of Wilsonville, Ore.; one sister, Anna Mae O'Neal of Mesa, Ariz.; one sister-in-law, Sue Gentry of Jefferson City; one grandson and granddaughter-in-law, Brad and Susan Hequembourg of Charleston; two granddaughters and one grandson-in-law, Cheryl Wallace of Nashville, Tenn., and Mary and Mark Johnson of Somerset, Ky.; one great-grandson, Finley Hequembourg of Charleston; one great-granddaughter, Riley Johnson of Somerset; and several nieces and nephews.
Two brothers, Sheldon Gentry and Gerald Gentry, preceded him in death.
Services were conducted at 11 a.m. today at McMikle Funeral Home in Charleston. The Rev. Roger Jesperson, pastor of the United Methodist Church, officiated.
Burial followed in the IOOF Cemetery near Charleston.
Pallbearers were: Leo Schott, Bobby Schott, Tom Graham, Bob Graham, Buddy Marshall, Dennis Rapert and Ernie Carman.
McMikle Funeral Home of Charleston was in charge of arrangements.
Paid obituary