Brian Glynn Gentle

Brian Glynn Gentle was born on February 5, 1937, in Melbourne, Australia to Leonard and Elma Florence Abbey. Brian passed away April 5, 2022 in Durham. Following primary school, Brian won an academic scholarship to Scotch College (a private Presbyterian school). He played on football and cricket teams and was a Queen (Eagle) Scout.

Following Scotch College, Brian was influenced by a Wheaton Graduate, Billy Graham, to move to the United States. Brian then enrolled to Yale Divinity School in New Haven, Connecticut. He completed his Master of Arts degree at Colombia University and Doctor of Philosophy at Duke University. Brian married Arden Bishop and served successive United Methodist pastorates in North Carolina.

Brian was a loyal fan of Duke basketball and football. He and his wife, Arden, loved to travel the world; especially in Maine.

Brian loved to preach and teach. He loved weddings and considered officiating at funerals a “sacred privilege”. Brian had a positive view of faith and the requirement of the church to engage the world.  

The Gentle family is under the care of Hall-Wynne Funeral Service. Online condolences: www.hallwynne.com - select obituaries.