Belinda Kay Cloninger Gentry

Belinda Kay Cloninger Gentry, 62, passed away peacefully on September 15, 2026, in Kings Mountain, North Carolina. She was born on December 28, 1963, in Gastonia, North Carolina, to the late Robert Eugene Cloninger and Linda Goins Cloninger.

Belinda had a true passion for cooking. Her love of food and bringing people together helped her and her late husband, David Gentry, to own and operate Hickory House BBQ on Little Rock Road in Charlotte, North Carolina.

Known for her strong work ethic and, at times, her stubborn streak, Belinda will be remembered most for her fun, sassy personality and the joy she brought to those around her. In her free time, she enjoyed crocheting and cross-stitching. She especially loved the fall season and looked forward to decorating for the Christmas holidays.

Above all else, Belinda cherished her girls. She took great pride in watching them grow into beautiful young women and treasured every moment she shared with them. Her love for her family was at the heart of who she was, and the memories she created with those she loved will be cherished forever.

Belinda is survived by her daughters, Chrystal Wilson Ruppe, Krisleigh Farmer (Mason), Cheyenne Calhoun, and Phoenix Calhoun; her two great-grandchildren, Thorin Thompson and Adeline Lovelace; and her siblings, Barry Cloninger (Lynne), Teresa Hartwell, and Donna Rayfield (Jay).

In addition to her parents, Robert Eugene Cloninger and Linda Goins Cloninger, Belinda was preceded in death by her beloved husband, David “Dave” Gentry.

Sisk-Butler Funeral Home is honored to serve the family of Belinda Kay Cloninger Gentry.