Mandy Jo Gentry

 Mandy Jo (Hawkins) Gentry passed away on March 27th 2019 at 2:08 a.m.  Mandy was born on November 1, 1978, in Columbus, Indiana to David J. (Tomala) Hawkins and Robin Kay (Darin) Lord. She was a loving mother, daughter, sister and friend. She enjoyed spending time with her three boys, family, and close knit friend-family. She also loved playing women’s flag football and broomball.  Mandy was a long time employee of Applebee’s in Columbus. Starting as a waitress in 2002, Mandy recently worked her way up the ladder to become an Area Director for Apple American Group. During her 17 years at Applebee’s Mandy hosted many fundraisers for various charities including Alex’s Lemonade Stand, Toys for Tots, and various Love Chapel initiatives, not to mention regular food donations for local sports teams, non-profits, and community groups. She would also host an annual community Thanksgiving dinner for individuals who had nowhere to go on Thanksgiving.  Mandy is survived by her parents; her sons, Christian (Erin) Jaral, Kyle Jaral, and Zander Gentry; her boyfriend, Eric Brannan; children’s fathers, Brian S. Gentry and Derrick Jaral; a sister, Cassie Hawkins (Tommy Wicker); a niece, Braelei Ernest, and two nephews, Briceon Ernest and Trynten Wicker;  her grandmother, Wanda Sue Scott, all of Columbus; as well as many close friends who were like family.  She was preceded in death by a brother, Nathanial David Hawkins; her grandparents Ed Scott, Clara and Joseph Hawkins; and her great-grandparents.  A celebration of life will be held at the Eagles Lodge #741, at 930 Washington Street, in Columbus from 2-8 p.m. on Sunday, March 31st, 2019.  Friends and family may call at any time during those hours.  In lieu of flowers, the family requests a donation in Mandy’s name for the Love Chapel Ministry.