John Dodds Gentry

Dodds Gentry
Columbus, MS

Dodds Gentry, 46, of Columbus, MS was called to his heavenly home on Friday, November 6, 2015 as a result of an automobile accident near Starkville. Dodds was born on April 9, 1969 in West Point, MS to John G. and Linda Heflin Gentry of Crawford, MS. He enjoyed growing up in the country with his parents and his sister. Dodds attended Central Academy in Macon, MS for several years but graduated from Starkville Academy and was a staunch supporter of that school. He later graduated from Mississippi State University with a Bachelor’s degree in Business. Dodds loved MSU and his Bulldogs.

Dodds married the love of his life, Gina Kellum, on December 23, 1989. Last year they celebrated their twenty-fifth anniversary by taking a cruise with all three of their boys. The whole family had a great time and made some wonderful memories together. Dodds was an accomplished chef and cook and enjoyed grilling for his family and friends. This love for cooking carried over into his life’s work as owner of the Golden Horn Restaurant. Dodds enjoyed greeting his customers from behind his grill.

For any of his family, he always had a loving hug and a big smile. He enjoyed being with his extended family, and he especially treasured his time with his wife and his sons. He was a supporter and booster of all of his boys’ athletic teams and activities. Dodds enjoyed vacation trips to the beach, but wherever he was, he was always enjoying life. He was an active member of First Baptist Church in Starkville and was always ready to help wherever he was needed. He was well known for his generosity and was loved by all who knew him.

Dodds Gentry leaves behind his wife, Gina and his two sons, Jack and Joshua. He also leaves his parents, Johnny and Linda Gentry; his sister, Gina G. Cotton (Chuck), and his sister-in-law, Cindy Williams (Jason), his beloved nieces, Laura Cotton and Ashley Cutrer (Lance) and great nephew, Luke Cutrer. He was followed in death by his son, J.D. Gentry. He was preceded in death by his grandparents, Harroll and Dulcia Heflin and W.A. Jr. and Beatrice Gentry.

A home-going celebration for Dodds and J.D. Gentry will be held on Saturday, November 21, 2015 at First Baptist Church in Starkville at 2:00 P.M. with Rev. Chip Stevens officiating. A time of visiting and remembering with family and friends will be held from 11:00 A.M. until 1:45 p.m. at the church. The family appreciates everyone’s love, care and concern for them, but they humbly request that while you are visiting with the family at the visitation, please limit your visit to one or two minutes per person so that the family may have a chance to speak to all who come. You are invited to bring cards or notes to leave for the family. A private, family graveside service will follow. The family has requested all memorials to please be made to First Baptist Church Children’s Building Fund, 106 East Lampkin Street, Starkville, MS 39759. The employees of the Golden Horn will serve as honorary pallbearers.

Cockrell Funeral Home of Macon, MS is entrusted with arrangements. www.cockrellfuneralhome.com