Karla Gentry

Karla Jan Gentry, 68, of Glen Rose, Texas, passed peacefully on December 3, 2025, while resting on her couch and watching one of her favorite shows—a gentle reminder of the simple joys she cherished throughout her life.

Born on September 18, 1957, in Sherman, Texas, Karla was raised in Colbert, Oklahoma, by her loving parents, Max and Joyce. She graduated from Colbert High School and later began building a life devoted to her family, her faith, and the people she held closest to her heart.

After moving to Arlington, Texas, Karla met Jeffrey Gray. Jeff became a significant part of her life and the lives of her children. Jeff and Karla did the best they could for the kids—it wasn’t perfect, but they gave their love, their effort, and their whole hearts.

Later in life, Karla followed her daughter Casey to Glen Rose, Texas, where she became a dedicated member of Grace Baptist Church. Her faith was a source of strength, and she cherished every moment spent with her family, especially her grandchildren, who were her greatest joy.

Karla worked for many years at the Dairy Queen in Glen Rose, where she formed friendships, supported her community, and brought warmth to everyone who crossed her path. She had a natural ability to make others feel seen and cared for, often through quiet acts of kindness and the steady presence she carried so gracefully.

Karla lived her life grounded in compassion, service, and an unwavering love for her family. She was always giving—her time, her energy, her heart—and she made a lasting impact on everyone she touched. Her home was a place of comfort, where her gentle spirit and thoughtful nature offered peace to those who needed it.

Karla was preceded in death by her beloved son, Corey Gentry, brother Charlie Riley, and by Jeffrey Gray, who held a meaningful place in her life. 

She is survived by her sister, Allison Crosslen, and her husband, Steven, along with their children—Josh Crosslen, Haley and Garret Morace, and Preston Clepper. She is also survived by her daughter, Casey Mitchell, her husband, Shanon, and their children: Gage and Brody Carnes, Abigail, Grace and Luke Mitchell, as well as her sister-in-law Shelly Roach Riley and niece Jacque Riley.

A Memorial Service honoring Karla’s life will be held at 2:00 p.m. on Monday, December 8, 2025, at Wiley Funeral Home in Glen Rose, Texas. Flowers may be sent directly to Wiley Funeral Home.

Karla leaves behind a legacy of deep love, steadfast faith, and the quiet beauty of a life lived for others. Her presence will be profoundly missed, and her memory will continue to bring comfort and light to all who knew her.