Billy Ray Bentley

Mr. Bentley was born in Madison County, AL and graduated from Hazel Green High School. He was a graduate of Berry College where he excelled in basketball, track, and baseball. He signed a baseball contract with the New York Yankee organization upon graduation in 1957. He served his community well and for many years coached young boys in baseball, football, and basketball. Mr. Bentley was a U. S. Government civilian service employee for more than 42 years, retiring as Director of Resource Management in the Program Executive Office, Tactical Missiles. During his years of government service he received many awards and commendations for his outstanding managerial abilities and expert leadership in his field of expertise. These included the Department of the Army Meritorious Civilian Service Award presented to him upon his retirement.

He was a member of the Locust Grove Baptist Church where he served in many ways over the years. He most enjoyed his job as teacher of his Men’s Sunday School Class.

He is preceded in death by his parents Dewey and Fannie King Bentley. He is survived by his wife of 56 years, Shirley Maples Bentley, sons Blake Bentley (Shawn) and Eric Bentley (Leah) and daughters Deborah Lawing and Tamera Findley (Johnny); grandchildren Haley Cagle (Scott), Lindsey Roper, Brandon Lawing (Tina), Alex Glenn, Austin Grace Bentley and Olivia Bentley, great grandson Colton Cagle, and brother E. D. Bentley (Joan).

Visitation with be Sunday, September 30, 5 – 8pm at Valhalla Funeral Home. The funeral service will be held Monday, October 1, 1l:00 am with Dr. Robert White officiating. Burial will follow at the Valhalla Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the American Heart Association or American Diabetes Association.