CHARLES DAVID BENTLEY

It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of beloved husband, father and grandfather Dave Bentley.

Charles David Bentley, born August 19, 1947 in Jenkins, KY and most recently of Avon Park, FL, passed away at 3:08 p.m. on Wednesday, September 27 in Lake Wales, FL.

Bentley, a highly respected teacher and basketball coach at the high school and college levels, battled Parkinson’s Disease for decades, never losing his intelligence, wit, tenacity, or love of life. He was a fighter, a friend and a mentor to many.

Bentley is a member of the University of Virginia’s College at Wise Sports Hall of Fame, the Letcher County Sports Hall of Fame, and once had a day named in his honor by the fine folks of Wise, VA. Many of his former players and assistant coaches have gone on to become successful head coaches at the high school and college level, carrying on a legacy of hard work, preparation, and knowledge of the game.

He was preceded in death by his mother and father, Marie and Charles Bentley and his brothers Michael (who passed in infancy) and Mark.

He is survived by his loving wife Sue Bentley, who was by his side for 54 years - from the moment they met until the moment he closed his eyes - his sister Barbara Hale and her husband John, his sister Judi Bentley and her husband Bob Lee, as well as many nieces, nephews, and cousins. His sons Matthew (and wife Carey) and Jared (and wife Vanessa), are extremely proud of their father, and hope they can set a comparable example for Cole and Adelaine, the grandchildren Dave Bentley was so very proud of.

The family will be traveling to Wise, Virginia to celebrate his life with friends and family October 15 at the First Baptist Church Fellowship Hall from 4:00 to 6:00 p.m. They hope to have friends and family gather and enjoy remembrances of his life, sharing their favorite Dave Bentley stories.

In lieu of flowers, the family asks that you make donations to the University of Virginia’s College at Wise.