Alonzo M. Gentry's Obituary
Alonzo (Lonny) Michael Gentry, born September 12, 1950, in Brooklyn, NY passed on November 17th, 2023. Beloved husband of Nancy Gentry and loving stepfather to daughters Monica Menahem and Melissa Apolinario. He is also survived by Ex-spouse Rachael Watson and daughter Molly Gentry, Ex-spouse Michele Desirey and son Catlin Gentry and Courtney Silva and Ex-spouse Karen Klempa and daughter Kellie Bodiford. Cherished son of Beatrice Maxfield and Oakley Gentry (predeceased).
Dear brother of Oakley Gentry, Beatrice Sweick, Amelia Enright, Jacqueline LeCoche, and Christopher Gentry. Adored grandfather of Farah Bodiford, Gavin Bodiford, Oakleigh Gentry, Savannah Wakefield, Whitney Wakefield, Abigail Wakefield, and Riley Wakefield
Lonny’s life was a testament to his love for the sea and his determination to fight against Parkinson’s disease for the last 23 years. His journey took him from a childhood on Long Island, in a large family, to a life of travel and adventure in the Merchant Marines. Despite leaving home at the young age of 15, he managed to gain a lifetime of experiences on the sea, earning his captain’s license and traveling to South and Central America, the Caribbean, and many other ports.
His battle with Parkinson’s disease was marked by grit and determination. He sought treatment from various doctors and clinics, even traveling to Germany for a stem cell procedure. The deep brain stimulation surgery he underwent at the University of Miami was a significant turning point, relieving him of the tremors that are a common affliction of the disease.
Lonny was a licensed real estate associate, specializing in waterfront properties in and around Fort Lauderdale. He also created Dock locators, a yacht docking company, which he ran with his wife Nancy for 19 years. This venture allowed him to meet many wonderful people, some of whom became dear friends.
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Lonny’s sense of humor, bright mind, and charm touched many lives. He was part of a Parkinson’s support group called Movers & Shakers, where he formed valuable friendships with others who are also battling this cruel disease. His resilience and spirit will be remembered by all who knew him.
Donations in Lons memory may be made to The Michael J. Fox Foundations at https://give.michaeljfox.org/donate.
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