Hazel Marie Gentry

Hazel Marie Gentry, born on August 26, 1931, in Hot Springs, Arkansas, peacefully departed this life at her home on July 15, 2025. She leaves behind a rich legacy of love, hard work, and unwavering faith.

Hazel dedicated over 30 years of her career to the Arkansas Health Center, serving as the personnel director until her retirement in 1987. Her work ethic and commitment were evident not only in her professional life but also on the family farm. Hazel and her husband labored side by side, raising cattle, corn, soybean, and hay. Together, they cultivated a life grounded in shared responsibilities and the rewards of hard work.

A graduate of Rural Dale High School in 1949, Hazel was known for her deep connection to her community. A longtime member of the Ten Mile Missionary Baptist Church, she loved the Lord and actively participated as a member of the Ready Club. Her faith was a cornerstone of her life, guiding her actions and uplifting those around her.

Hazel embraced life with enthusiasm. She cherished traveling with friends, forming bonds enriched by experiences and shared stories. Known among her peers as a "walking historian" about the rich history of the Ten Mile Community.  

Hazel is survived by her devoted daughter, Linda Barnett and her husband, Shelby; granddaughter, Kaitlyn Eubanks Phillips; and siblings: Irma Fryar, Richard Houpt, Mary "Tootie" Toney and her husband, Ron, Gary Houpt, David Houpt and his wife, Jeri, Vickee Pearson, and Darlene Loftis. She also leaves behind a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends who will miss her dearly.

She was preceded in death by her loving husband of 70 years, Roland Forrest Gentry, whose presence was a guiding light in her life; parents, Obadiah and Lillian Parrish Houpt, and her sisters, Virginia Whitner and Belva Daniels.

The family extends heartfelt thanks to Hazel's caregivers for their compassionate, loving, and dependable care, including those at Pleasant Hill Senior Care, Encore Heart Hospital ER, ACU and ICU staff, and Elite Hospice.

The visitation will be held on Friday, July 18, from 10:00 AM to 11:00 AM at Ten Mile Missionary Baptist Church, located at 17510 Church Rd, Lonsdale, AR 72087. Funeral service following at 11:00 AM, with burial taking place at 12:00 PM at Ten Mile Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to Ten Mile Cemetery in Hazel's honor.

Services entrusted to Smith-Benton Funeral Home. Online guestbook: www.SmithFamilyCares.com.