Tunica County Supervisors honored former Tunica County School Superintendent Jerry Lee Gentry on Oct 24. Gentry also served on the Coahoma Community College Board of Directors for almost 20 years.
Tunica County Chancery Clerk Rechelle Siggers said Gentry always displayed a high level of professionalism and integrity.
“He treated all persons with dignity and respect,” said Siggers. “He provided valuable service to Tunica County and its citizens in handling complicated issues. He adequately served for the rights of all, fairly and accurately.”
Gentry was born June 27, 1934, in Noxapater, (Winston County) to Coy and Beatrice Gentry.
Gentry graduated from Noxapater High School and furthered his education at Tougaloo College on a football scholarship. He later attended Alcorn State University. Ultimately, he earned a Master's Degree in Administration and an Educational Specialist Degree from the University of Mississippi.
Most remember him as an educational legend in the state of Mississippi. For over 50 years, he served as a football and baseball coach, athletic director, principal, and superintendent.
He eventually retired after a successful tenure as the Tunica County School District superintendent.
Mr. Gentry was a member of Fredonia Missionary Baptist Church. He served in various capacities, including Deacon, Chairman of the Deacon Board, and the finance committee.
In April 1991, Mr. Gentry married Mrs. Juanita Holmes Gentry, who has stood by his side for 36 years.
