Fans of Troy Gentry will be able to remember and say their goodbyes to the country singer this week. A public celebration of Mr. Gentry's life will be held on Sept. 14 at 11 a.m. CST. The celebration will be held at the Grand Ole Opry House on 2804 Opryland Drive, Nashville, Tenn., 37214. A private event for close family and friends of Gentry's will be held afterward.
Instead of flowers, Troy's family is asking to donate to either the T.J. Martell Foundation or to the American Red Cross for hurricane relief.
Troy Gentry will be best remembered for his contributions to the duo Montgomery Gentry. Along with his longtime buddy Eddie Montgomery, the two went on to make their mark on modern country music. Since their first release in 1999, Montgomery Gentry has released a collection of No. 1 hits including "Something to Be Proud Of" and "If You Ever Stopped Loving Me."
Three of Montgomery Gentry's records even hit platinum-selling status. Another three were certified gold. But, the achievement that Troy was most proud of was when he and Eddie were inducted into the Grand Ole Opry in 2009.
Troy will also be remembered for being his work as a philanthropist. In his life, he had generously donated to a slew of charities such as the Make-a-Wish Foundation and the T.J. Martell Foundation mentioned above. He was a vocal supporter of breast cancer research and supporting our troops, contributing to such organizations as the USO. His charitable contributions to society helped Montgomery Gentry win the Academy of Country Music's 2009 Humanitarian Award, too.
READ MORE: Country Stars React to the Death of Troy Gentry
At the heart of it all, Troy Gentry was a man guided by his music, his family and his faith. He is survived by his wife, Angie, and their daughters Taylor and Kaylee. Among his favorite bible verses was Deuteronomy 31:6, which says, "Be strong and courageous; don't be terrified or afraid of them. For it is the Lord your God who goes with you; He will not leave you or forsake you."
Gentry passed away three days ago following a tragic helicopter accident. Friends, family and fans alike have vocalized their appreciation for Troy and his music in a variety of touching ways, including an on-stage tribute from Old Dominion.
