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Graveside Celebration of Life Ceremony: 1 p.m. Wednesday, July 6, 2022, at Powers Cemetery, Xenia
Those attending should arrive directly at the cemetery.
Wanda Lou Gentry, age 91, of Flora, Illinois, made the journey to her heavenly home on Saturday morning, July 2, 2022, with her daughters by her side.
She was born October 24, 1930, in Cisne, the daughter of Herschel and Elsie (Koontz) Simmons. She was united in marriage to Omer P. Gaines in 1946, and he passed away in 1962. She later married Ray Gentry, and he passed away in 2006.
Wanda’s most favorite things in life focused around her time spent with family and friends. She had attended the Baptist Church, and enjoyed when her family accompanied her. Old-time hymns were her favorite music, and she loved listening to them and having her kids and grandkids join her. Over the years she tended to many gardens, and the best part of growing fresh vegetables was when she could share them with her family. She also appreciated taking short bus trips and excursions to enjoy new places. Wanda had retired after many years of working as a nurses aide at several area nursing homes. Even after retirement, she continued to work with Addus Home Health, helping care and go above and beyond for clients who became like family to her.
Wanda is survived by 4 daughters: Jeanette Coggin and Deana Anderson, both of Flora, Carolyn Cannon of Altamont, and Goldie (Brian) Shaw of Newport, Tennessee; grandchildren: Krystal (Darin) Dunnigan, Stacia (Mike) Mulvaney, Kerry (Amy) Herdes, Pamela Anderson, Wendi (Daniel) Ufford, Larry Allan Gaines, Kyle Gaines, Teresa (Benny) Hurst, and Mary (Anthony) Graham; and many great-grandchildren and several great-great-grandchildren. She was preceded in passing by her parents; husbands; infant daughter: Mary Lou Gaines; son: Larry Omer Gaines; 3 sons-in-law: Dennis Coggin, Gary Anderson, and Richard Cannon; a stepdaughter: Modena Green; 2 stepsons: John and Ivan Gaines; 3 brothers: Reuben Eugene, Delbert Lee, and Allen Albert Simmons; and 2 sisters: Bessie Simmons and Edna Brooks.
A graveside Celebration of Life Ceremony will be held at 1 p.m. Wednesday, July 6, 2022, at Powers Cemetery, Xenia. Those attending should arrive directly at the cemetery. Arrangements are by Frank & Bright Funeral Home in Flora. Memorials are suggested to Powers Cemetery and these will be accepted by the funeral home. To share a condolence or memory, visit: www.frankandbright.com
Jul 21, 1931 - Nov 18, 2024
Nov 15, 1940 - Nov 9, 2024
Sep 5, 1961 - Oct 31, 2024
Nov 14, 1941 - Oct 30, 2024
Nov 28, 1936 - Oct 29, 2024
Deana and all of Wanda’s family; Bud and I are sorry for the loss of your mother. Wanda was always kind to us and always had a smile for us. We’re thinking of each of you as you prepare for your final goodbye. May God wrap you in his loving embrace as you grieve. Our prayers are with you. RIP Wanda❣️
We are sorry to learn of the passing of your Mother Wanda. She was a happy and friendly lady and will certainly be missed by all who knew her. We send our sympathy to your family.
Was so glad To had the time caring for wanda. In her home she was a joy to care for.. hugs to all all the family.. God bless u all..
Condolences and prayers for her family. Very sweet lady.
Sorry for your loss. Wanda was a wonderful lady and always had a smile for everyone. Prayers of comfort for all the family and friends.
I will remember Wanda's sweet smile and friendliness. Keeping you all in my prayers and thoughts. May God bless with good memories to sustain you and give you strength.❤
Deana, Jeanette, Carolyn, and Goldie; my condolences to you and your families at the passing of your Mom. When we were neighborhood kids growing up she always made us feel welcome and comfortable in her home. In my adult life when I would see her she was smiling and chatty and seemed genuinely glad to see me. You are all in my thoughts and prayers.
Wanda was such a sweet lady! I always enjoyed the bright smile she wore! Jeanette, Deana, Carolyn, and Goldie you all are in our prayers during this very difficult time of loss!
My thoughts are with you. Love Chris Sorry I won't be able to make it
So sorry for your family's loss, you are in my prayers.🙏
Sorry for your families loss.
I am so so sorry for your loss. Goldie, hugs to you my dear friend. ❤️
Wanda was a wonderful mother-in-law, I enjoyed every minute we had together, she will be missed greatly. She will forever be in my heart and my memories, God bless you and all of our family.
Prayers to all the family. A mother’s love is precious.
We are so sad to hear of the passing of your mother. Our prayers are with you during this difficult time.
I just saw Wanda had passed!!! I'm so sorry I missed her funeral!!! You have my deepest sympathy!!!
I ran across my aunt Wandas obituary the other day doing geneology work. i am so sorry for everyones loss. She was my fathers only surviving sibling. his name is Delbert lee Simmons. There is never a good time to lose a loved one, so this goes out to all. would love to contact my cousins i havent seen since i was a little girl. 1 812 204 9689
Frank & Bright Funeral Home
and Cremation Services
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Flora, Illinois 62839
Phone : (618) 662-2141
Fax: (618) 662-4600
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