Mary “Rita” Garcia Bentley, age 86, passed away peacefully on Thursday, December 18, 2025. Born on May 25, 1939, in Santa Fe, New Mexico, Rita lived a life defined by kindness, resilience, and unwavering devotion to those she loved.
She was preceded in death by her beloved husband, Daniel “Terry” Bentley; her parents, John Ellison Garcia and Antonia M. Lopez Garcia; her brothers, Johnny Garcia (Mildred), Frank Garcia (Ofelia), George Garcia (Gloria), and Tony Garcia (Lucy); and her sister, Josephine Vaughn (Joseph).
Rita is survived by her daughter, Antoinette Bentley (Rian); her son, Danny Bentley (Lorraine); her grandsons, Ryan and Devin; and numerous nieces and nephews whom she loved dearly.
As a young girl, Rita moved to El Paso, Texas, where she attended St. Patrick’s Cathedral School. She was a proud graduate of Loretto Academy, Class of 1957. Following graduation, she worked in the office of the Street Department, where she developed many lifelong friendships. On April 15, 1967, she married Terry, and settled just four blocks from her mother’s home—a reflection of how deeply family mattered to her.
Rita’s greatest joy came from caring for her children, grandchildren, nieces, and nephews. Her home was a place of comfort, delicious meals, laughter, and unconditional love.
Rita was a lifelong and active member of All Saints Catholic Church, a devoted Loretto alumna, and a generous sponsor of many Loretto students in need of financial assistance. In her free time, she enjoyed arts and crafts, gardening, and reading a good book.
Rita will be remembered for her generosity, faith, and deep love she shared with those who knew her.
All who cherished Rita are invited to join in celebrating her life.
A viewing will be held on Tuesday, January 6, 2025, from 5:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m. at Funeraria Del Angel, 3839 Montana Ave., El Paso, Texas 79903, with the recitation of the Rosary at 6:30 p.m.
The Funeral Mass will be celebrated at 11:30 a.m. on Wednesday, January 7, 2025, at the Chapel of Loretto, 1300 Hardaway, El Paso, Texas 79903.
Burial will follow at 1:00 p.m. at Evergreen Cemetery, 4301 Alameda. A reception will be held at El Convento (Loretto) after the burial.
