Joan Elizabeth Bentlage

Born on December 28, 1934, in New Orleans, Louisiana, and raised in Natchez, Mississippi, Joan’s life was marked by remarkable achievement, foresight, and generosity. From an early age, she distinguished herself as a leader and a communicator. Joan graduated from Natchez High School in 1952 where she was class speaker and editor of the student newspaper. She continued her academic journey at Southwestern College in Memphis, earning a bachelor’s degree in religion in 1956. She graduated with distinction, was inducted into Phi Beta Kappa, and served as president of the senior honor society for women. Her exemplary scholarship earned her the prestigious Danforth Foundation

Graduate Fellowship, which took her to Washington State University in Pullman, where she coordinated and directed campus religious activities.

She furthered her studies at Yale Divinity School, receiving a Master of Arts in Religion in 1959. That same summer, Joan participated in a distinguished graduate seminar in Europe, broadening her academic and cultural horizons. It was during this time that she received, by telegram, an offer to serve as a campus minister at the Presbyterian Church in Columbia, Missouri – a move that would shape the rest of her life. In Columbia, Joan met her future husband, Troy Bentlage, with whom she shared 64 years

of marriage. Together, they built a loving family, worked alongside Erv and Glenda Bentlage in the family rental business, raised three children, and enjoyed the blessings of many grandchildren. Joan and Troy traveled extensively, embracing new experiences around the world.

Joan was deeply committed to service and community. She gave her time generously as Cub Scout leader, Brownie and Girl Scout leader, 4-H leader, PTA member, Christian education chairman, and Sunday-school teacher. She was active in CUCC Women’s

Fellowship, Church Women United, and volunteered with Meals on Wheels. Her devotion to her children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren was boundless, and her legacy of wisdom, compassion, and inspiration live on in all who knew her.

Joan is survived by her children, Ken, Dave (Sunny), and Margaret (Don); her grandchildren, David (Amanda), Troy (Amy), Brett, Blake, Caleb (Hayley), Blaine, Grace, and Porter; seven great-grandchildren; and a host of nieces and nephews, and extended family. She was preceded in death by her beloved husband Troy, her parents, and her granddaughter Whitney.

The family extends heartfelt thanks to the Compassus hospice team and devoted caretakers Karla and Carlis, for their compassionate care.

Joan Elizabeth Womack Bentlage will be remembered for her lifelong intellect, leadership and servant’s heart. Her spirit of generosity and love will continue to inspire all who were

fortunate to know her.

A visitation and memorial service honoring both Joan and Troy Bentlage followed by an inurnment will take place starting at 11 a.m. on Saturday, July 25 at Memorial Funeral Home & Memorial Park Cemetery in Columbia, Mo.

In lieu of flowers, consider donating to Show-Me Central Habitat for Humanity, 1305 Business Loop 70 E, Columbia, MO 65201, in their memory.

Condolences and fond memories can be shared at www.memorialfuneralhomeandcemetery.com