Dec. 24, 1931 ~ March 28, 2024
Anne Francelle Gentry, 92, of Whitefish, Montana, passed away March 28, 2024. She was born Dec. 24, 1931 in WestCliff, Colorado, to the late Thomas F. Watt and Elizabeth Amy Watt (Fee).
Anne was an independent, tenacious and caring soul who started her adventures in life teaching English and PE at the elementary school and junior high, as well as being the high school’s librarian in Meeker, Colorado. After her days teaching, she ventured into real estate, but her true passion was in the hospitality industry. Anne was proud to be a cruise consultant and worked on cruise ships for over 30 years. She was fortunate enough to travel the world many times over, and wouldn’t shy away from telling you that indeed, she had been there before. Anne was a voracious reader and was a member of the Whitefish Book Club. One of her great passions was duplicate bridge where she excelled regularly. Later in her life she could be spotted riding her bike around Whitefish, to the thrift store or on her way to North Valley Hospital where she volunteered her time and energy in the café. Anne committed her life to serving and attended both Christ Lutheran and Northridge Lutheran Church. She was known to many by her consistent high energy, colorful wardrobe, and outspokenness on the things she believed strongly about.
Better known as Grannie Annie by those whom she called family. Grannie Annie will be fondly remembered, especially during the holiday season, when she would showcase her collection of decorations to celebrate the birth of Christ, as well as herself.
Anne is survived by daughter, Janelle Gentry; son, Kirk Gentry; five grandchildren: Jordan Gentry, Jessica Gentry, Jocelyn Gentry, Dustin Haines, and Savannah Gentry; and three siblings: Tom Watt, Harry Watt, and Sally Smith. Anne is preceded in death by daughter, Michelle Gentry; grandson, Sonny Kless; and brother, Dick Watt.
Memorial services for Anne Francelle Gentry will be held at 1 p.m. Sunday, April 28, 2024, at Northridge Lutheran Church, 323 Northridge Drive, Kalispell, Montana, 59901. Family and friends are invited afterwards for a celebration of life at North Forty Resort, 3765 MT-40 W, Columbia Falls, MT 59912. In lieu of flowers memorial contribution may be made payable to “A Ray of Hope” (46 5th Ave W, Kalispell, MT 59901) or “Peggy’s House” (106 5th Ave W Kalispell, MT 59901.) To send online condolences, please visit www.columbiamortuary.com.
