Gentry Ray Hammons

Gentry Ray Hammons, 77, a lifelong Battle Creek resident, died peacefully at Glenn Arbor Hospice Residence on Wednesday, September 16, 2020. He fought cerebral palsy bravely all of his life.

Gentry was born August 27, 1943 in Battle Creek, Michigan the son of Owen R. and Virginia M. (Chase) Hammons. He was a 1962 graduate of Battle Creek Central High School, graduated from Argubright Business College in 1974 and earned an Associate Degree in Business Administration from Davenport University. Gentry was self-employed as an accountant.

Surviving are his sister, Jennifer K. (Burnie) Moore of Battle Creek; two nieces, Tina (Larry) Rathbun, Tammy Hammons; two nephews, Burnie (Bethany) Moore, Justin (Casandra) Moore and their families, all in the surrounding Battle Creek area. Gentry was preceded in death by his parents; and a brother and his wife, Jimmy Lee and Brenda Hammons.

Gentry was a member of First United Methodist Church, where he served on the personnel committee, finance committee, and was head of the endowment committee. He was a member of Hill House Apartments, created to provide independent living for individuals with Cerebral Palsy and formerly served as Treasurer. Gentry was a member of the Battle Creek Jaycees, volunteered at Stan Musial, Michigan Battle Cats, Battle Creek Yankees, Battle Creek Bombers and other sporting events. He was an avid Detroit Tiger and Red Wing fan. Gentry volunteered frequently at the Franklin Food Pantry and for many community events. He was always thinking of ways to improve Battle Creek and to help those in need. He helped establish The Battle Creek Growth Fund through the Community Foundation, to help fund non-public events and festivals in Downtown Battle Creek. He received the Enquirer & News George Award. Gentry will be remembered as a loving brother, uncle and special friend to many in the community.

Friends will be received 12:00 – 1:00 p.m. Friday, September 25th at First United Methodist Church, where a memorial service to celebrate Gentry's life will be held at 1:00 p.m. Friday, September 25, 2020. (Masks will be required and social distancing will be maintained.) Inurnment will be held at Floral Lawn Memorial Gardens.

Memorial contributions may be made to First United Methodist Church, 111 E. Michigan Avenue, Battle Creek, MI 49014 or The Battle Creek Growth Fund through the Battle Creek Community Foundation, 32 W. Michigan Avenue, Suite 1, Battle Creek, MI 49017.

Arrangements are by Farley Estes Dowdle Funeral Home & Cremation Care. Personal messages for the family may be placed here at www.farleyestesdowdle.com.