Gentry Lee Chapman, 85, of Madison, WV, passed away at his home on Friday, March 14, 2025, after a short illness.

Born a New Year’s baby on January 1, 1940, to the late Roy and Callie Chapman, he was a Marine Veteran and was stationed in many states as a young Marine, his favorite being Hawaii. He lived many years in Maryland, raising three of his daughters before returning home to WV. He worked at Harris Mines until he retired. Gentry then owned and operated Tri County Heating and Cooling to the present date. He was prideful in teaching his grandson, Michael, the HVAC trade, and for the last several years letting him help run the business.

He loved being on the water and owned several boats in his lifetime. Boating was one of his greatest pleasures. Gentry was an avid player of the slots. He played daily trying to win big. He ate at Park Avenue Restaurant every day for over 20 years until they closed. This is where he also met many of his friends and acquaintances. He was a lifetime Washington Redskins fan and watched every game.

Gentry is preceded in death by his parents; brother, Stevie Chapman; and sister, Francis Ann Harmon.

He is survived by four daughters, Denise (Leroy) Pritchard of Danville, WV, Donetta (Kenny) Fraley of Florida, Debra (Jeff) Kuhn of Madison, WV, and Gena Hauner of Nebraska; five granddaughters, Kim Holstein, Jenni McCloud, Nikki Rayburn, Kailea Rodela and Kassie Hauner; two grandsons, Michael Pritchard and Geoffrey Kuhn; and six great-granddaughters, Madi, Maylea and Mya McCloud, Adlyh Rayburn, Paityn Pritchard, and Kaiya Hauner. Gentry is also survived by two sisters, Robin Eldridge and Shirley Ayres.

As per his wishes, there will be no services. His cremated remains will be placed with his brother and mother during private family graveside service. 

Arrangements have been entrusted to the care of Evans Funeral Home & Cremation Services at Chapmanville, WV.