Maye Dean Mitchell Gentry

Maye Dean Mitchell Gentry, 94, of Dublin, Georgia, passed away on October 7, 2024. A beloved educator, devoted mother, and community pillar, Maye leaves behind a legacy of love, service, and unwavering dedication to her family and community.

Born on May 18, 1930, in Forsyth, Georgia, Maye cherished her hometown throughout her life. She pursued higher education at Bessie Tift College, laying the foundation for her future as an educator.

In the fall of 1952, Maye embarked on her teaching career at Hawkinsville High School, where she would not only shape young minds but also find her life partner. It was there that she caught the eye of head football coach Bobby Gentry. The two married on June 11, 1953, beginning a 52-year journey filled with love, mutual respect, and plenty of football.

Maye's passion for science and her students made her an exceptional high school teacher, earning her the admiration of countless pupils over the years. Her dedication extended beyond the classroom, as she excelled in her role as a loving, selfless mother to her two daughters.

Upon retirement, Maye's commitment to service only grew stronger. She became a pillar of the Hawkinsville First United Methodist Church, holding various leadership positions. Her compassion led her to volunteer as a hospital "Pink Lady" a volunteer in the Walk to Emmaus program, and a supporter of the Kairos Prison Ministry.

Maye's greatest joy in her later years came from her four grandsons. Known affectionately as "Muv", she cultivated special relationships with each of them, always ready for new adventures. From beach weeks to Disney trips, Maye's enthusiasm for life and family never waned.

Maye is predeceased by her parents, James Northern and Sibyle Irene Mitchell, and her husband, Robert Richard "Bobby" Gentry. She is survived by her beloved older sister, Sybil Rose Mitchell Dulin of Laurinburg, North Carolina; daughters Sibyle Vicky Griffin (Grady Fain Sr) and Robyn Dean Allen (Lonnie Gilbert); grandsons Robert Mitchell Griffin (Brittany), Grady Fain Griffin, Jr. (Laney), Ross Farrah Griffith (Spencer), Aiden Mathew Griffin and William Mitchell Griffith (Natalie); great-grandchildren Grayson Ryals, Gentry Jane, Grady Fain III, Mandy Eloise, Maddox Mitchell Griffin, Camilla Leigh, and Maxine Grace Griffith; as well as several nieces and nephews.

A memorial service celebrating Maye's life will be held on Friday, October 18, at the Hawkinsville First United Methodist Church. Visitation will begin at 1 PM, followed by the service at 2 PM.

In lieu of flowers, the family suggests memorial contributions to honor Maye's legacy of compassion and community service. Donations may be made to Georgia Hospice Care, 1111 Hillcrest Parkway, Dublin, GA  31021 which provided excellent care during the last four years of her life, or to Pulaski Pawsitive Impact, Attn:  Alice Parker, PO Box 305, Hawkinsville, GA 31036, which funds spaying and neutering services for needy dogs and cats in Pulaski County. Contributions to the Hawkinsville First United Methodist Church are also welcome.

Maye Dean Mitchell Gentry's life was a testament to the power of education, family, and community service. Her warmth, dedication, and adventurous spirit will be deeply missed and fondly remembered by all who knew her.