Joan Kay Mong Gentry was born June 13, 1940 in Richmond, Indiana to Willis "Bill" Mong and Donna Faye Mong. She was the eldest of 6 children: Peggy, Sue, Jean, Jerry (Kathy) and Treva (Marvin).

A longtime resident of Murfreesboro, Joanie was preceded in death by her husband, Junior Richard "J.R." Gentry, sister, Sue Mong, stepson, Jack Gentry, grandchildren, Eva Faith Sharber, Lee Martin Sharber and Brandon Robert Brunelle, and first husband, Dewitt Crews, who remained her lifelong friend. She is survived by her children, Donna (Timothy, d.) Hood, Elizabeth (Charlie) Wilson, Kennieth (Pamela) Crews, and Sean Gentry, nieces and nephews, a host of grandchildren, great grandchildren, and great-great grandchildren. She introduced herself and was affectionately known as "Grandma Joanie" to anyone she met.

A graduate of Manatee County High School and in pursuit of her dream of becoming a Registered Nurse, Joanie attended Polk Jr. College, then Middle Tennessee State University, finally obtaining her Masters in Nursing from Vanderbilt University in 1991. She was employed by Veterans Hospital in Murfreesboro, Tennessee.

Mrs. Gentry was an eccentric lady who wasn't afraid to stand out or stand up for what she believed. She was a dedicated member of Christ Church in Nashville. She was an avid collector, loved traveling and relished in socializing, swimming and the sauna at the YMCA. She loved making precious memories with her family that will be cherished for many years to come. She often said she "was blessed to be a blessing", making an intentional effort to do something kind for another person each day and was always willing to offer a hug or an ear.

Joanie left this life to be present with the Lord on September 10, 2021 having spent her last days surrounded by her loved ones in Florida. As she so often told us, it was her wish that you may feel Jesus near every day of the year.

Funeral service will be 11AM Tuesday at Woodfin Memorial Chapel. Burial will follow in Roselawn Memorial Gardens www.woodfinchapel.com