Donna graduated from Victoria High School and attended Texas A&I University, completing a Bachelor of Science in Home Economics and a Master of Education in Adult Education. As a dedicated Rotarian for many years, Donna was named Rotarian of the Year for Sunrise Rotary Club of Victoria in 2003-2004 and was honored as a Paul Harris Fellow. She was also named an Outstanding Lifetime Ambassador by the Victoria Chamber of Commerce in 2011. Donna served as a member of the Aggie Mom’s Federation for decades and as president from 1998-1999 in addition to various other leadership positions. Donna was the Executive Director of the Literacy Council of Victoria, served with the Workforce Commission, Region 3 Education Service Center, and served in various other philanthropic and educational leadership capacities. Despite her countless achievements, she never ceased her pursuit of learning.
From her active engagement in the education of her own kids to her career as a teacher of children and adults throughout her life, education has been central to her life’s mission. Earning multiple degrees while working and raising a family, she persevered in everything she pursued.
Donna has embodied education in its fullness: supporting her children and grandchildren’s education, her influential career as a teacher, her work with the literacy council, and her passion to support the learning of anyone willing to better themselves.
She was a constant presence in her family’s life, supporting her children and grandchildren in their many activities no matter where they took place.
After a marriage of 55 years, Donna and Bob Bentley’s love was a shining beacon to all who witnessed it. Through thick and thin, they loved each other ceaselessly.
She embodied integrity, equality, and perseverance, exemplifying the ideals of others above self.
Family has always been fundamental to her life. From her bond with her brother to her closeness to her husband’s siblings, her love overflowed to all. She married into a big family that she adored, which took her in and claimed her as one of their own from the start. She was a fixture at family reunions and events, and always made it a point to be there for every family member in their times of need.
Donna is survived by her husband of 55 years, Bobby Ray Bentley of Victoria; daughter, Lea Bentley Castillo of Dripping Springs, TX; son, Corry Bentley (April) of Allen, TX; brother, John D. Knox (Ann) of Canyon Lake, TX; in-laws, Peggy McKee, Freda Elam (Dalton), Nita Phillips, Jim Bentley (Marsha), Mary McKeever (Jack), Jack Bentley (Tammy), Clo Ann Kotzur (Robert);grandchildren, Brian Bentley (Allyson), Blake Bentley, Kate Weyenberg, Chase Castillo, Elissa Castillo and numerous cousins, nieces, nephews and extended family.
A Celebration of Donna’s life will be Monday, October 15, 2018 at 2 PM at Rosewood Funeral Chapel in Victoria, Texas.
Honorary pallbearers (known as The Outlaws) are Cecil McKee, Jim Phillips, Christa Bentley, Dalton Elam, Jack McKeever, Marsha Bentley, and Robert Kotzur.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to The Victoria Adult Literacy Council, The Victoria Downtown Rotary Club or a charity of your choice.
Words of comfort may be shared with the family at www.rosewoodfuneralchapel.com.
