William Gentry

William H. “Bill” Gentry, 78, died at 7:35 a.m., Friday, September 25, 2026, at Jerseyville Manor.

He was born on November 24, 1947, in Lincoln, Illinois, the son of the late William and Evelyn (Horner) Gentry. Bill’s childhood was spent as a military brat, living in many places such as California, Italy, and Germany, while his father made his career as a pilot in the U.S. Army. Growing up, he enjoyed playing a variety of sports, no matter where he lived. His fondest childhood memories were of spending treasured time with his Grandpa and Grandma Horner on their farm, Oak Hill Farm in Mason City, Illinois. 

After high school, Bill went on to enlist and proudly served his country with the United States Army from 1965 to 1968, spending much of his military service stationed in Germany, where he worked as a Radio Equipment Technician Specialist. Following his military service, he had a variety of jobs, and eventually went on to a career with the State of Illinois. He worked initially for the Department of Employment Security and the Department of Corrections before transitioning to the Office of the Inspector General, where he served as a public aid fraud investigator until his retirement. 

A friendly and outgoing man by nature, Bill enjoyed the company of others and rarely passed up an opportunity for conversation. He was an avid sports fan who faithfully cheered on the Chicago Cubs, the University of Illinois Fighting Illini, Eastern Illinois Panthers, Olney Tigers, Jersey Panthers, and NCAA wrestling. As much as he enjoyed following his favorite teams, nothing quite compared to first being a father, and later a grandfather–and earning his most favorite title of all: Papa. In fact, upon retirement, he followed his daughter, son-in-law, and grandchildren wherever they went, moving first to Olney, IL and later Jerseyville, IL to be close to them. 

A devoted family man, he took great pride in Tommy, Becca, Ari and Bennett, and told everyone he met all about them. His happiest moments were spent babysitting both of his grandchildren daily until they went to Kindergarten, and then simply being present in their lives: telling them many stories from his own life, imparting his wisdom, and cheering them on from the sidelines as their #1 biggest fan.

During his recent time spent at Jerseyville Manor, Bill continued to embrace his social nature, enjoying the friendships he made with both residents and staff, and becoming a familiar face at Bingo and other social activities. He was grateful for the good care he received there. Whether sharing a story, talking sports, or enjoying a little friendly competition, he appreciated the simple pleasure of being surrounded by people.  He made a point to say hello to everyone in the hallways, and he could often be heard singing hymns quietly to himself or talking to God throughout his day.

A man of great faith, he knew and loved Jesus as his personal saviour. He humbly shared his faith and spoke of God’s blessings and provision in his life with anyone who would listen. He would end every visit with his family with this important reminder: #1–God, #2–Family, #3–Country.

He is survived by his daughter and son-in-law, Rebecca and Thomas Leslie, along with his two beloved grandchildren, Arianne and Bennett Leslie, all of Jerseyville, as well as a niece and several nephews. In addition to his parents and grandparents, he was preceded in death by his two sisters, Betty and Kay.  He will forever be loved and cherished. Until we meet again in heaven… “H&H.”

He will be laid to rest at Camp Butler National Cemetery in Springfield, Illinois, where a private burial will be held. A celebration of life visitation and service will be held on what would have been his 79th birthday, on November 24, 2026. Visitation will be at 1st Assembly of God Church in Jerseyville from 4:00-6:00 p.m., with the service to follow immediately after.

Crawford Funeral Home in Jerseyville has been entrusted with arrangements. Memorials may be made to the Jersey District 100 Foundation, 100 Lincoln Avenue, Jerseyville IL, 62052. Memories may be shared with the family by visiting www.crawfordfunerals.com.