Danny Hemphill, founder of Sentry Pest Control, started working in the business in 1980—learning the trade. As his knowledge of the field grew, Danny’s passion for pest control led him to form his own business in 1989, Sentry, which he incorporated in 1990.

Sentry opened their first office on State Road 20 in Interlachen, but moved locations when the road was widened in 2005. Sentry is now located at 431 Atlantic Ave., in a lovely, renovated building.

A family-owned business—Danny’s wife, Carla, was a former co-owner—and their son, Adam, took over ownership and operations when Carla and Danny retired in 2023. As a young child, Adam Hemphill accompanied his father to job sites and formed a love of the business himself.

Aside from just pest control, Sentry focuses on strengthening the wider Putnam community. The Hemphills are pro-local business—Danny was a member of the Putnam County Chamber of Commerce (since 1990) and is a prior president, as well. Danny is also a prior member of the Sunrise Rotary in Palatka, FL. He then started Rotary Club of Interlachen/Lakes Area in 2014 where he is now a current member, while also currently serving on both the Habitat for Humanity and Putnam First Cancer Fund boards, among others. Sentry works hard to provide sponsorships throughout Putnam county, along with Rotary educational scholarships.