Monica Welch Gentry

Monica Welch Gentry was born on July 3, 1965, in Cincinnati, Ohio, to Edward and Dorothy Williams Welch. She was the eldest daughter and was affectionately known as “Moni,” a devoted “Daddy’s Girl” who later became the primary caregiver for her father for many years. Monica departed this life on April 14, 2026, after a very brief stay at Hospice Blue Ash.

Monica was raised in the Church of God tradition, beginning her faith journey at Fosdick Street Church of God before her family later joined Dayspring Church of God. She received her early education at Woodlawn Elementary and Bethany Schools, then attended Robert E. Lucas Middle School and Princeton Junior and Senior High Schools.

A gifted and well-rounded individual, Monica excelled as a student-athlete, participating in soccer, volleyball, softball, and track. She also enjoyed playing the flute and was known for her outgoing personality and ability to build meaningful relationships with those around her.

After graduating from high school, Monica pursued higher education at Bennett College, Kentucky State University, and the University of Cincinnati, where she earned her associate degree in criminal justice. She began her professional career working with the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, and Firearms at the Federal Building in Cincinnati, Ohio. Later, she followed her passion for education, earning her bachelor’s degree in elementary education from Grand Canyon University.

Monica dedicated over 16 years to shaping young minds. She served 11 years with Cincinnati Public Schools, where she was admired for her firm yet nurturing approach to teaching. She continued her educational career with IDEA Public Schools for five years, serving as a Team Lead and was awarded the High Performing IDEA Teacher award, teaching at the grade level where her talents were most impactful. She remained committed to her students and her calling as an educator until the very end of her life.

On March 8, 1997, Monica was united in holy matrimony to Marvin Ernest Gentry, Jr. at Lincoln Heights Missionary Baptist Church, officiated by Reverend Freddie Piphus, Jr. Their union was blessed with three children: Marvin Ernest Gentry III, Monique Eleana Gentry, and Maleah Elise Gentry. Monica took great joy in supporting her children’s academic and athletic endeavors and was especially proud to coach championship-caliber girls’ volleyball at Bethany for four years.

Monica had a deep love for nature and wellness. She possessed a remarkable green thumb, cultivating a vibrant flower garden each year, and enjoyed walking and biking to stay active.

She was preceded in death by her beloved mother, Dorothy Welch; her grandmother, Ennis Zimmerman Williams; her aunts and uncles Elizabeth White, Patricia Welch, Elmo White Jr., Clyde Williams, Jerome Williams, Lowell Williams, Weynon Williams, Sonny Welch, George Welch, and Harvey Welch; and her cousins Maurice Smith and Thomas Welch.

Monica leaves to cherish her memory her devoted husband, Marvin Ernest Gentry, Jr.; her loving children, Marvin Ernest Gentry III, Monique Eleana Gentry, and Maleah Elise Gentry; her dear sister, Kelly Welch Williams (Andrew); and a host of aunts, uncles, nieces, nephews, cousins, extended family members, and many friends who will deeply miss her presence and legacy.

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