Laura Matilda (Bentley) Desper

Laura Matilda Desper (née Bentley), age 99, passed away peacefully at home after a month-long illness on September 6, 2025, in Cary, North Carolina. Born on January 23, 1926, in Woodlyn, Pennsylvania, she lived a long and meaningful life rooted in faith and family.

Laura was the beloved daughter of Dr. George and Carolyn Bentley. She was preceded in death by her parents, her son John Windsor; her brothers Marsden Bentley, Richard "Dick" Bentley, Earl "Bud" Bentley, and Albert Bentley; and her sisters Irene Bentley, Nancy Bentley, and Ruth Stanton. Her legacy continues through the many lives she touched with her unwavering love and devotion.

She is lovingly remembered by her children: daughters Laura Stealey and Jayme Dubernas; sons Jim Desper, David Desper, and Paul Desper. Her grandchildren-Bill Stealey (Meredith), Tiffany (Jimmy) Stopper, Alyson Windsor, Jennifer Dubernas, David Desper, and Lexy Desper-carry forward her memory with love and pride. Laura was also blessed with great-grandchildren, Emma (AJ) Pitts, Luke Stopper, Nate Stopper, Seth Stopper, Caleb Stopper, Parker Stealey, Caroline Stealey, Jack Stealey, Avie Windsor, and Izzy Windsor. Her joy multiplied with the arrival of great-great-grandchildren, Avalynn Pitts, James Pitts, and Preston Pitts. She also leaves behind numerous nieces and nephews who cherished her deeply.

Faith was the cornerstone of Laura's life. From attending church twice a week as a child to maintaining a steadfast relationship with God throughout her years, she found strength and purpose in her spiritual journey. Her love for the Lord shaped every aspect of her life and guided how she cared for those around her.

Laura found joy in life's simple pleasures. She delighted in putting together jigsaw puzzles and never missed an episode of Jeopardy or Wheel of Fortune. She had a tender heart for her many pets throughout her life. She loved wildlife, often spending time feeding the birds and animals that visited her yard. Music brought her comfort, especially opera and gospel, and she found daily inspiration in reading her Bible.

Her world revolved around God and family. She lived well and loved well, a woman whose presence brought warmth to every room she entered. Her enduring faith and boundless love leave an indelible mark on all who knew her. We are grieving her loss but so grateful to God for the ninety-nine years, seven months and thirteen days He allowed us to have her. Rest well Mom, you are so loved.

May Laura Matilda Desper's memory bring comfort to those who knew her as they celebrate a life so beautifully lived-a life now at peace in the presence of her Savior.

A Funeral Service will be held on September 27, 2025, from 10:00 AM to 11:00 AM at White Plains UMC, 313 SE Maynard Road, Cary, NC 27511, with a reception to follow.

Laura will be buried with her parents, son, and sister on October 4th, 2025, at Arlington Cemetery in Drexel Hill, Pennsylvania. Graveside services will begin at 10 AM.

Donations in her honor may be made to the Dorcas Thrift Shop in Cary, a charity dear to her heart.