Buel Ray Bentley , loving husband, father and grandfather died on September 8, 2010 after a long illness. He showed a profound fighting spirit throughout his illness. His family and health care professionals marveled at his ability to remain upbeat and hopeful.
He was a man with great civic pride and a sense of responsibility. He served in many capacities – school board member, city council member, mayor and, in his most beloved role, fire chief. His leadership brought valuable training and equipment to the Caddo Mills Volunteer Fire Department.
His work life was varied, with many entrepreneurial ventures to his credit. Initially, he managed businesses for others, and then owned several businesses through his life. He was diligent and creative. His creativity went as far as inventing equipment that he could use to make his business more efficient. In fact, one of his inventions became a new business, as he began to make and sell the equipment.
Out of public sight, he was quite a musician. He played piano beautifully, by ear. He had a deep, resonant baritone and could even be persuaded to serenade his family with accordion music. His musical sense made him a wonderful dancer, and he and Joan made a beautiful couple on the dance floor.
He was a member of the Blue Lodge, The Scottish Rite Grotto, Hella Shrine and the Order of the Eastern Star #82.. He was also a member of the First Baptist Church of Caddo Mills.
Born July 1, 1937, in
He is survived by his wife of 53 years, Marjorie Joan Bost Bentley, two sons and a daughter, and four grandchildren. His children are Ben Bentley, married to Heather Buchanan Bentley. Reid Bentley, married to Lisa Walker Bentley and Pamela Bentley Kopfer, married to Randall Kopfer.
Ben's sons, Shawn and John are Marines, stationed in
His family would like to express deep gratitude to his Hospice team, especially Tammy and Paula for their loving and expert care and Richard's chaplaincy during this difficult time. They would also like to recognize the diligent and caring attention of Dr. Howard Kweller, Dr. Mohiudin Zeb, Dr. Mohan P. Phillip and their staff, particularly Deanna. And last, but not least, they wish to thank all of the friends, family and church members who visited and kept him in their prayers. All of these people made sure that Buel Ray and the family felt loved and cared for during this difficult time.
Services will be held at 2:00 PM Saturday at Coker-Mathews Funeral Home Chapel with Rev. Henry Suche officiating. Interment will follow at