Roll Call Tribute

Percy Edwin Gentle 

June 24, 1928 - January 15, 2024 

Percy Edwin Gentle died peacefully January 15, 2024 in Houston, Texas at the age of 95.

Percy was born to Johnnie and Reba Gentle on June 24, 1928, in McKinney, Texas, Percy spent his early years in Farmersville, Texas, where he completed high school. He pursued higher education at Texas A&M College, in the graduating Class of '49. During World War II, Percy proudly served in the United States Navy's Medical Corps.

In Houston, Percy encountered Marjorie Keeland, who was from Crockett, Texas, while both were employed at Aetna Casualty and Surety. They exchanged vows on April 1, 1949, at the First Presbyterian Church Houston. Following their union, Aetna relocated them to New Orleans, Louisiana, where their son, Edwin Bryan, was born in 1951. Returning to Houston in 1953, they welcomed their second son, Kirk Keeland, in 1956. Percy departed Aetna in 1956 to join his mentor, Hollis Danvers, eventually merging with longtime business partner of 25 years, Joe Eason. Together, they established the firm Danvers, Eason, and Gentle, working alongside their four sons. In 1992, their firm joined forces with three others to create Insurance Alliance, subsequently acquired by Marsh & McLennan, where it continues to operate today. Percy cherished his work, forming lasting friendships with many clients.

His relationship with his Savior was central to his core. Family life centered around St Andrews Presbyterian Church. For over 50 years, Percy actively served in various church roles, taught youth groups, and Sunday School. Additionally, he led the Men's Bible Study Fellowship working with his best friend, Addison McElroy, facilitating a passion for working with men and their walk with Jesus. Following Marjorie's passing from a stroke on March 31, 2000, Percy later married Ann Stanberry. Since, they have enjoyed traveling, companionship, and support for each other.

Percy leaves behind a rich legacy of dedication to family, faith, and a successful career in the insurance industry, impacting the lives of many. Percy's warmth, wisdom, and love will be fondly remembered by all who had the privilege of knowing him.

He is survived by his sons, Kirk Gentle and wife, Meg and Bryan Gentle and wife, Robin, all of Houston, Texas; grandchildren, Kathryn Wallace, Johnny Gentle, Sam Gentle, Jake Gentle, and Matt Gentle; stepchildren, James Stanberry and Scott Stanberry; and numerous other loving family members and cherished friends.

Percy was preceded in death by his parents, first wife, Marjorie Gentle; grandsons, Bryan Gentle and Adam Gentle; and sister, Ruby Bufford.

A memorial service will be held at 3:30 p.m., Wednesday, February 7, 2024 at St. Andrew's Presbyterian Church, 5308 Buffalo Speedway, Houston, Texas 77005. Percy will be laid to rest in a private family graveside at Walnut Grove Cemetery in Prosper, Texas.

The family requests memorial donations be made in Percy's honor to St. Andrew's Presbyterian Church in Houston.