Memorial Services for Mr. Arthur Wayne Gentry, age 77 of Ashland, will be held on Sunday, December 14, 2025 at Benefield Funeral Home in Ashland at 6:00 P.M. with Rev. Bruce Willis officiating. The public visitation will begin at 5:00 P.M. until service time. A private interment at the Ashland City Cemetery will take place at a later date.
Arthur “Wayne” Gentry of Ashland, AL was born on January 21, 1948 to James “Jim” Gentry and Alma Milstead of Talladega, AL and passed away on Wednesday, December 10, 2025 at his home. Wayne attended Heflin Junior School in the Idaho community and was a 1966 graduate of Clay County High School, and then earned a degree in business management from Jacksonville State University.
Wayne began his career at Wehadkee Yarn Mill at the age of 16 until he retired in 2004 due to the mills closure. He held positions of office manager, human resources, and safety director. He continues to work at local businesses including Wellborn and Integrity cabinets. Wayne and his wife Laura also owned and operated many businesses, most notably, Popcorn Preview Video, located on the Ashland Square.
Wayne was a valuable member of the Southern Gospel bands, “The singing Wayne’s” and “Shotgun and the Gentry’s”, where he showcased his talent of singing and songwriting, with his most prominent song being, “I’m the one.” Wayne had an exceptional ability to story tell, even writing his own book for his family. He also hosted a variety of radio shows, and was the voice of the Bibb Graves Bulldogs for some time. His other interests included traveling, collecting antiques, military memorabilia, and Native American artifacts. He loved the outdoors, and all things history related. Most importantly, he loved spending time with his family. Wayne outgoing personality and quick witted sense of humor will certainly be missed by many.
Mr. Gentry is survived by his children: Kristi Gentry Whetstone of Ashland, Jason Gentry of Sylacauga, Tracie Smith (Keith) of Ashland and Kellie Duke (Eddie) of Opelika; 6 grandchildren: Jasmine Stephens, Kayla Gentry Hubbard (Jared), Cole Gentry, Hannah Smith, Connor Duke, and Claire Duke; five great-grandchildren: Amiyah, Carson, Ethan, Everleigh, and Josie Lynn.
He was preceded in death by his parents, and his wife of 42 years, Laura Martin Gentry.
