The Griffon News

 If you really want to meet a bright and friendly face take time to stop by the hot dog cart in Agenstein Hall and say hello to Linda Gentry.

She has been working for Aramark for five years, which provides food service here at Western, and she has been serving snacks in Agenstein Hall for four years.

Gentry gave birth to twin boys, Kris and Kurtis. Unfortunately, Kurtis passed away from cancer in 2004. After her son Kurtis passed away she said the students and faculty here at Western were the ones who pulled her through and helped her keep going. Kurt would have been 31. 

Gentry is 53 and she came to Western when Roy’s Green Hills on S.22nd St. closed their doors. She had been the bakery and deli manager there for 11 years.

She also has an appreciation for nature.

“I love birds, flowers and flamingos, I also enjoy photographing all kinds of birds,” Gentry said.

She starts the day at 7:30 am by brewing up a fresh pot of coffee and preparing sandwiches and other goodies by hand, and a little bit of motherly love.

Gentry is always there to greet everyone who walks by with a kindness that is contagious. If students are having a bad day or just plain down in the dumps they can always count on her to cheer them up.

Gentry has this quality of kindness and understanding that goes above and beyond her everyday duties at Western.
Missouri Western freshman, Andy Gibson, appreciates the caring side of Gentry.

“Linda is very cool, and if I’m having a bad day she is someone I can talk to,” Gibson said.

Gentry truly enjoys her job and interaction with students and faculty and it shows in her warm smile. 
“I have adopted all of you,” Gentry said.

Sandy Seeger, assistant professor in biology, just loves Gentry and has asked her to be the maid of honor at her wedding in Hawaii this May. Take the time to meet Gentry and wish a safe and enjoyable trip, and don’t worry she’s coming back.

Kevin Anderson, associate professor in mathematics, was very enthusiastic about describing Gentry.

“Linda is the most caring and upbeat person I know, she always makes me smile,” Anderson said.

It is easy to overlook the people who make a difference and work hard to provide students and faculty with quality services here at Western.
Gentry loves the company around her and she truly cares for people and how they feel.
Gentry is definitely a person you should know, and a champion at work.