In loving memory of Philip Ray Bentley, age 74, of Madison, Ohio. He was born in Whitesburg, Kentucky, on February 16, 1949, to Sheba Hall and Clyde Ballard Bentley. He moved to Detroit in 1954 where he grew up and worked for Chrysler and Ford. Philip developed a passion for the Motor City which included the sound of Motown - knowing if it was a "hit" the first time he heard it. Also, Detroit Baseball witnessing the 1968 and 1984 World Series where he was the personal bodyguard for Mary Wells of the Supremes to sing the National Anthem before game 3.
During Christmas 1964, he met the love of his life, Blanche Marie, when she kissed him under the mistletoe. They were married on April 27, 1973.
In December of 1973, they welcomed their first child, a daughter, Lisa Deanna "the smart one" Lisi. In October of 1975, they welcomed their second daughter, Laura Connie-Elizabeth "the cute one" Lowiee. Then in September of 1982, "it's a boy" they welcomed their son, Brian-Ezra "Baby Boy."
He is survived by his wife of 50 years, Blanche Bentley; children, Lisa (Charlie) Coleman of Michigan, Laura Bentley of Ohio, and Brian (Brooke) Bentley of Ohio; grandchildren, William, Marissa, Sean, Kyle, Justyn, Nathan, Charles, Brooklyn, Tristan, Dominic aka "Johnny Breeze;" great-grandchildren, Oliver and soon-to-be Vanessa. Also survived by many nieces and nephews and lifelong friends Barry and Shirley.
Preceding him in death were his parents, Sheba Hall and Clyde Ballard Bentley; siblings, Shirlee Carlile-Holland; Steveanna Bentley, and Carol Ciganik.
A special "Thank You" to Bear and Donna for saving him. In the Summer of 2023 Philip met Charlotte Williams, Sally Haywood, and George Putnam. If given more time, he would have developed a special sibling bond with, but "better late than never!"
Lake Erie Cremation and Funeral Services, 1500 Harpersfield Road, Geneva, Ohio, assisted the family with arrangements.
www.LakeErieCrematory.com