Oma L. Bentley, 87 years, a lifelong resident of Monroe, Michigan, went home to be with the Lord on Sunday, June 18, 2023.
Born January 11, 1936 in Monroe, Oma was the daughter of the late Herbert and Nellie (Gray) McBee. Oma was a 1954 graduate of Monroe High School where she was an outstanding athlete. She played volleyball, softball, basketball and was on the synchronized swimming team. In 1956 she married Ronald E. Bentley.
Oma worked for Detroit Stoker, Monroe Bank & Trust, and Redeemer Baptist Church. Oma was employed as the office manager at Redeemer for 24 years. She retired in 2001. Oma was more than an office manager; her work at the church was not just a vocation to her. She was a vital part of the church. Her faith in the Lord was paramount to her. Oma loved people. She never hesitated to speak an encouraging word, minister to, and pray for those in need. Oma had a love for music as well. She bought her first piano as a teenager from money earned playing the piano at a local dance studio. She still has that piano in her home. Oma was a gifted singer and was a member of the Michigan Concert Choir. She enjoyed many years singing and traveling with the choir. Her passion for the Lord and love of music were traits she passed on to her children and grandchildren.
Oma is survived by seven loving children: Matthew T. (Mary) Bentley of Monroe, Paul A. (Sandy) Bentley of Monroe, Carol L. (Greg) Dion of Escondido, CA, Phillip S. (Shannon) Bentley of Erie, Ann E. (Eric) Miller of Monroe, Amy E. (Michael) Holley of Converse, TX and Joseph M. (Heather) Bentley of Monroe, 24 cherished grandchildren and 9 treasured great grandchildren.
In addition to her parents, Oma was preceded in death by two grandchildren: Jonathan Bentley and Aaron Pitts, and six siblings: Herbert, Harry, Joel, and Larry McBee, Audrey Henry, and Wilma McBee.
Visitation will be held on Sunday, June 25, 2023 from 2-8 pm at Bacarella Funeral Home, 1201 S. Telegraph Rd., Monroe, Michigan, 48161. Cremation will follow.
A memorial service celebrating Oma's life will be held on Monday, June 26, 2023 at 11:00 am at Monroe Alliance Church, 3975 S. Custer Rd., Monroe, Michigan, 48161.
In lieu of flowers, memorials are suggested to Samaritan's Purse, 801 Bamboo Rd., Boone, NC, 28607.
Online condolences and special memories may be shared with the family by visiting the obituary page at www.bacarellafuneralhome.com .