Linda Lois (Nicholson) Gentry February 2, 1940 - April 20, 2017

Linda Lois Gentry was born February 2, 1940, in Phoenix, Arizona, the eldest of three children. She went home to be with the Lord on April 20, 2017, at age 77.

At age 8, Linda accepted Jesus Christ as her Lord and Savior, and she grew in her love and service for Him throughout her life. On November 2, 1957, she and James Paul Gentry, Jr., were married. Following his service in the U.S. Navy, they decided to prepare for the pastorate. She worked alongside as he took the necessary schooling, and from 1971 to 2001, they served in four churches in California and Oregon. In addition to being pastor's wife, Linda also was mom to three girls. After retiring in 2001, the Gentrys lived in Sisters, Ore., and then in Hillsboro, Ore. Linda moved back to Hood River in 2015.

A gifted artist, Linda painted beautifully detailed landscape pictures, and made and sent deeply meaningful cards that were gifts in themselves. She delighted in the beauty of God's creation, her family, and friends, and often was seen with camera in hand recording what she was enjoying. Her life was devoted to serving the God she loved; she was a prayer warrior, and a loving and patient listener, helper, and encourager.

Linda is survived by daughters and husbands: Lorinda and Don Hoffman of Hood River, Lorraine and husband Brian Heerwagen of Portland, and Grace and husband Ron Duckworth of Cornelius, Ore.; seven grandchildren; and two great-grandchildren. Also surviving are brothers Lyle and wife Cecelia Nicholson, and Paul and wife Mary Lois Nicholson; their children and grandchildren; and numerous friends. She was preceded in death by her husband of 46 years, James Gentry, on November 19, 2003.

A Celebration of Life was held at 3 p.m. Sunday, April 23, at Faith Bible Church in Hood River.

A private family graveside service was also held on April 23 at Idlewilde Cemetery.

Linda's desire was that any special giving be directed to a ministry that was very dear to her and to the family. Please make checks payable to DELTA Ministries and put Gentry Memorial Fund on the memo line. Mail to: DELTA Ministries, 1400 NE 136th Ave, Suite 201, Vancouver, WA 98684.