Ernest Ray "Ernie" Bentley, 86, of Brandon, Florida, passed away on Sunday, July 21, 2024. He was born on December 19, 1937, in Fleming, Kentucky, son of Henry S. and Ellen (Franklin) Bentley. He grew up alongside his siblings, Mary Sargent, Bernice Lampert, and William Bentley, all of whom preceded him in death.

Ernie graduated from Milan High School, Indiana, in 1955 and furthered his studies at Purdue University, where he earned a Bachelor's degree. He later obtained a Master's degree from The Ohio State University. His academic pursuits paved the way for a successful career as a sales manager at Ford Trucks, where he was respected for his dedication and leadership.

A veteran of the US Army, Ernie served from 1955 to 1963, dedicating eight years to serving his country with distinction. His time in the military was marked by a commitment to excellence and duty.

Ernie's personal life was filled with love and joy. He married Mary Lee Robinson in 1963, who survives him. Together they raised three daughters: Michelle Miles, Monica (Curt) Copley, and Melanie (Stephan) Bentley-Montanaro in Loveland, Ohio, and eventually living in Brandon, Florida for many years.  Ernie was a proud grandfather to Zachry Copley, Michael Miles, Brandon Miles, Samantha (Shelby) Nelson, Ashlee (Donald) Gillis, Hannah (Jorge) Foster, and Evan Bentley-Montanaro. He was also a great-grandfather to Owen Foster, Gracen Gillis, Dakota Nelson, and Marshall Foster.

A member of St. Stephen's Catholic Church, Ernie was involved in his faith community along with his loving wife. His interests included water skiing, tennis, golf, working outdoors, and carving wood ducks, activities that reflected his love for nature and craftsmanship.

Ernie was known for his warm personality, being a wonderful father, grandfather, and great-grandfather, and a special man loved by many. He enjoyed bird hunting and boating, and cherished the time spent with his family, especially their annual beach vacations.

The arrangements are being handled by Serenity Meadows in Brandon, Florida. Ernie's life and legacy will be remembered by all who knew him, as a dedicated family man, a committed professional, and a faithful friend.  In lieu of flowers, contributions can be made to the Alzheimer's Association in Ernie's memory. Checks may be mailed to Alzheimer's Association, 14010 Roosevelt Blvd., Suite 709, Clearwater, FL 33762; OR via telephone: 800-272-3900; OR online:.    https://rb.gy/8j799a  alz.org. Scroll down to Donate in Honor of a Loved One and click on Make a Tribute Donation. Under Find a Tribute, click Search and type in his name.

A memorial service will be held on Friday, September 6, 2024. Friends and family may visit from 2:00-3:00 with the service beginning at 3:00pm