Gary Wayne Bentley was born June 8, 1940, in Letcher County, KY, to the parents of the late Vivian and Henry Bentley. Gary had two brothers, Tyrone and Randy Bentley, both of whom are deceased. He leaves behind 2 nephews, both of Arkansas.

Gary was married to Shelby Jo Williams Bentley, who passed away September 23, 2016. They were happily married for 46 years and resided in Prestonsburg, KY. From their marriage, Gary leaves behind a sister-in-law, Shirley Volk of Sebastian, Florida; a niece, Wendy Rochester of Vero Beach, Florida; 2 nephews, Buck Combs of Lexington and Grant Combs of Danville. As well as Grant's son, Brayden Combs.

Gary was introduced by a mutual friend to Evelyn Roberts, who had also lost her spouse. That friendship grew into a relationship that gave them both a beautiful support partner that grew out of their love for the Lord, the pain of their loss, and both their love for shopping. Together they've spent the last 9-plus years sharing some tears, prayer, laughter, Scrabble games, shopping, golf outings, long walks, dancing, and twirling in the kitchen. A beautiful love grew from friendship to fiancé, and they enjoyed life again. With this relationship Gary gained an additional family that loved him very much.

Gary was someone full of life, jokes and laughter and he shared it with those he met from day to day. He loved sharing Jesus and did it so well by his gracious giving nature. He never met a stranger. He was always giving something, be it with his witty personality, bibles, clothes he purchased or money he slipped in a pocket.

Gary's achieved many successes over a range of different careers throughout his life from Sargent in the Army, School Teacher, Community Health Worker, Office Manager, commercial Pilot serving as well a Deacon and Sunday School teacher at his local church.

Gary was of the Baptist Faith and served the Lord for many years. His favorite Scripture being John 3:16.

Gary will be missed by all.

At Gary's request, his services will remain private. Interment will follow at the Lakeview Memorial Cemetery at Staffordsville.

Jones-Preston Funeral Home is both honored and privileged to be entrusted with all final arrangements for Mr. Gary Wayne Bentley.