Marvin gaye parents Brief Life History of Marvin Pentz Marvin Pentz Gay Sr. (October 1, 1914 – Octo) was an American Pentecostal minister. He was the father of American recording artists Marvin Gaye and Frankie Gaye and gained notoriety after shooting and killing his son Marvin on April 1, 1984, following an argument at their home. Born the first of 13 children to George and Mamie Gay on October 1.