Joseph Leigh Bentley, born on November 27, 1957, in Nashville, Tennessee, passed away on January 24, 2026, at the age of 68. A devoted, hard-working, and loyal man, Joseph lived a life full of purpose and dedication.
Joseph spent his years in Hermitage, Tennessee, where he was known for his exemplary character and strong values. He worked for many years as a mechanic for a plastics company, showcasing his commitment and diligence in his career.
A devoted family man, Joseph was an exemplary husband to his wife, Maria, and a true patriarch. He went to great lengths to care for his family, including his sons Rey (Monica), Leo (Jesse), and Christian (Madelin), and his grandchildren Desi, Dara, Coco, Gabriel, Savy, Jessma, Lily, Jaja, Darian, and Leito. He also leaves behind his great-grandchild, Armani.
Joseph's personal interests included a love for fishing and scuba diving. He also had a passion for dogs and enjoyed training them. He led by example, believing firmly that right was right and wrong was wrong, and he lived his life following the rules with simplicity and integrity.
He was preceded in death by his parents, John K. Bentley and Barbara Jo (Sidler) Bentley. He is survived by his wife Maria, his brother John Kelly Bentley, III, his nieces Helena and Audry, and his great-niece Georgia Rae and great-nephew Hunter.
A Gathering of Family & Friends will take place on Thursday, January 29, 2026, from 10:00 am to 12:00 pm at the Hermitage Funeral Home. A Celebration of Joseph's Life will follow at 12:00 pm in the Tulip Grove Room at the funeral home. Following the service, Joseph will be laid to rest in Mausoleum BC at Hermitage Memorial Gardens.
Joseph Leigh Bentley's life was a testament to his values and dedication to his family and community. He will be dearly missed and fondly remembered by all who knew him. Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be shared with the Bentley family by selecting "Add a Memory" at the bottom of this page.