Obituary of Verna Mae Bentley

Verna Mae Bentley, 93, of Carlinville, passed away Wednesday morning, June 14, 2017 at Heritage Health Care in Carlinville, IL.

Verna was born on August 10, 1923 to Lennie and Ora (Buckingham) Smithson in Nilwood Township. She graduated from Virden High School with the class of 1940. Verna married William H. Bentley on March 22, 1945 and he preceded her in death on January 18, 1975.

Verna was a mother, grandmother, and homemaker. She also worked for Fun Fabrics at the Carlinville Plaza and Rushton's on the square. Verna was a member of Carlinville United Methodist Church for 71 years where she belonged to the Dorcas Circle. She was also a member of the Friendly Neighbor Ladie's Club, as well as several card clubs.  Above all, Verna's life centered around her children and grandchildren.

Verna is survived by her daughter, Linda Bentley-Shirley of Burlington, NC; son, Randy (Susan) Bentley of Carlinville, IL; twin daughters, Brenda (Al) Hiniker of Rochester, MN and Becky (Wm. Kenneth) Meece of Carlinville, IL; 14 grandchildren; 18 great grandchildren; 1 great-great granddaughter; sister, Vivian Pilgrim of Manchester, IA, as well as several nieces and nephews.

Verna was preceded in death by her parents; husband; grandson, Billy Meece; daughter-in-law, Judy M. (Meece) Bentley; 4 sisters and 1 brother.

Visitation will be held on Saturday, June 17, 2017 from 9:00 to 11:00 am at Carlinville United Methodist Church with a memorial service following at 11:00 at the church with Rev. Robert E. Sabo officiating.

Private graveside services will be held at Mayfield Memorial Park Cemetery at a later date. Verna will be laid to rest next to her husband, Bill Bentley.

Memorials are suggested to the Carlinville United Methodist Church or Heritage Health Care.