Mary Smith Bentley, 81, of Lenoir, passed away on Thursday April 30, 2026, at Amorem, Burke Hospice, Valdese, after a period of declining health.

Mrs. Bentley was born November 28, 1944, in Caldwell County. She was an active member of Dry Ponds Baptist Church and participated in the church choir before her illness. Mary was a loving wife, mother and grandmother and loved being around all her family.

She was preceded in death by her mother, Florence Smith, her husband, Benny Joe Bentley and several brothers and sisters.

Surviving are her children, Ann Dillard and husband Melvin of Lenoir, Sherry Gill and husband, Wesley of Sawmills, Danny Bentley and wife Gina of Lenoir and Terry Bentley and wife Lorri of Valdese. Also surviving are the apple of her eye, her grandchildren, Kelly Helton (Ross), Brittany Bean, Taylor Bentley and one great-grandchild Jhyon Tate.

A Service of Remembrance will be held at 7:00 P.M. Friday May 8, 2026, in the Chapel of Heritage Funeral Service, Valdese, with Rev. Jerry Bentley officiating.

The family will receive friends from 6:30 until 7:00 P.M. Friday at Heritage Funeral Service, Valdese.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to Amorem, Burke Hospice, 1721 Enon Rd., Valdese, NC 28690.

An online obituary and guestbook is available at www.heritagefuneralservices.com.