Mary Alice Bentley

Mary Alice McGee Bentley, 90, of Raleigh, NC passed away on June 4, 2026 at Brookdale Assisted Living in Smithfield, NC. She was born at home on November 17, 1935, in Wilkes County, NC, to the late Albert and Bess McGee. In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her brothers, James McGee and Joseph McGee, and her sisters, Mozelle Vaughn and Lucille Wise.

Mary Alice grew up in the close-knit community of Mount Pleasant, where her intelligence, determination, and strong work ethic were evident from an early age. She graduated as Valedictorian of Mount Pleasant School's Class of 1954. In 1956, she met the love of her life, John W. Bentley. Their courtship blossomed into a marriage that would span nearly seven decades. They were married on July 6, 1957, and together built a beautiful life centered on family, hard work, and service to others.

Mary Alice had a remarkable 31-year career with the North Carolina Department of Correction. In recognition of her outstanding service, she was awarded The Order of the Long Leaf Pine on two occasions, receiving the award in 1974 from Governor James Holshouser and again in 1990 from Governor James G. Martin. Upon her retirement in 1990, she left behind a legacy of excellence, dedication, and servant leadership.

One of Mary Alice and John’s greatest joys began in August 1979 when they purchased a farm in Laurel Springs, NC, and established their family tree farm, City Limit Trees. Whether selling trees wholesale or welcoming visitors during choose-and-cut seasons, the farm became a treasured gathering place and reflected the warmth and hospitality that defined Mary Alice’s life.

To those who knew and loved her, Mary Alice was affectionately known as “Happy.” The nickname was lovingly given to her by her granddaughter, Kelsey, and could not have suited her better. Mary Alice delighted in sharing the story behind the name, and everyone who knew her understood why it stuck. Her joyful spirit, warm smile, and positive outlook brightened every room she entered.

A faithful servant of Christ, Mary Alice devoted her life to her Lord, her family, and her church. For more than sixty years, she was a dedicated member of Ephesus Baptist Church in Cary, where she faithfully served in numerous ministries. Her faith was not only something she professed, it was something she lived each day through kindness and compassion.

One such example was her passion for music. As a young woman, she played piano and sang alongside her father and brothers in a family quartet. Her love for music remained one of her greatest joys and became another way she connected with and blessed those around her. Another passion of Mary Alice’s was volunteering at the Dorcus Thrift Shop in Cary, NC. She also enjoyed bowling, square dancing, was an avid reader, and was known for her humor and quick wit.

Mary Alice had a remarkable gift for making people feel seen, valued, and loved. Whether offering a listening ear, sending an encouraging note, or lending a helping hand, she never missed an opportunity to care for others. Her gentle spirit, genuine kindness, and selfless heart left a lasting impression on everyone she met.

Above all else, Mary Alice treasured her family. She was a devoted wife, loving mother, and proud grandmother. Her family was the center of her world, and she poured her love, wisdom, and encouragement into each of them. The lessons she taught, the traditions she created, and the unconditional love she shared will continue to guide and inspire those who were blessed to call her theirs.

Though her absence leaves an immeasurable void, her family finds comfort in a lifetime of precious memories and in the assurance that she has entered the presence of her Savior. Her legacy of faith, love, service, and joy will live on in the hearts of all who knew her. The world is better because “Happy” was here, and her family will forever be grateful for the love, faith, and joy she shared so generously.

She is survived by her beloved husband, John W. Bentley of Raleigh, NC; her son, Rodney Bentley and wife Janet of Kenly; NC; her grandchildren, Dr. Kelsey Bentley and husband, Cooper McAuley of Manhattan, Kansas, Tanner Bentley of Chicago, Illinois, and Dustin Ray of Kernersville, NC; her great-grandchildren, Ajax and Ronin Ray; her brothers, Frank McGee of North Wilkesboro, NC and Phillip McGee of Camden, SC; and numerous nieces, nephews, and friends.

The family will receive friends Wednesday, June 10, 2026 beginning at 10:00 am at Ephesus Baptist Church, 6767 Hillsborough Street, Raleigh, NC 27606. A memorial service will be held at 11:00 a.m., with a graveside service immediately afterward at Ephesus Baptist Church Cemetery. Memorial contributions may be made to Ephesus Baptist Church, 6767 Hillsborough Street, Raleigh, NC 27606.

“Well done, good and faithful servant.” - Matthew 25:23