James Earl Gentry, age 88, of Rutherfordton, NC passed away Friday, October 2, 2020 while being cared for at Oakland Living Center. Born February 20, 1932 in Cavel, NC, he was the son of the late Melvin Henry Gentry and the late Ethel Ashby Gentry. Jim was one of the founding members, an Elder, and supporter of Father’s Vineyard Church in Spindale, NC, a graduate of the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill and a veteran of the US Army. He spent his career as an accountant/comptroller for Collins & Aikman Textiles in Cavel, Albemarle, Charlotte, and eventually settled in Rutherfordton, finishing his career with Mastercraft and Stonecutter Mills. He was a lifetime Red Cross Supporter, donating over 17 life time gallons, and serving as a volunteer for the organization in many capacities. Habitat for Humanity, Rutherford Hospital Auxiliary, loving his UNC Tar Heels, sports in general and specifically playing golf and tennis were all important parts of Jim’s life. In addition to his parents Jim was preceded in death by his wife Patricia S. Gentry, a sister, Gail G. Green of Smithfield and a brother, Michael D. Gentry, of Roxboro. Jim leaves to cherish his memory a daughter Dawn G. Richardson and her husband Gary, of Rutherfordton; a son, R. Craig Gentry and his wife Mary Ellen of Charlotte, three grandchildren, and two great grandchildren. At Jim’s request, no formal services will be held. In lieu of flowers memorials may be made to the charity of your choice. The family would like to thank everyone associated with Oakland Living Center for the kindness and love shown to Jim during that time of his life. We love you all.