Sheila George Bentley

Born on September 10, 1949, in Garden City, Kansas, to Kenneth and Aletha Ilene Martin George, Sheila was raised in New Iberia and Franklin, Louisiana, and was a longtime resident of Gonzales, Louisiana.

Sheila was a force. With her signature red hair and a personality to match, she earned her nickname honestly. Those who knew her called her a firecracker, a spitfire — a woman full of strength, humor, and a spark you couldn't miss. She could command any room she entered, and she loved fiercely. She was a devoted wife, a proud mother, a doting grandmother, and a fierce protector of her circle. She always showed up when it mattered most. Sheila loved nothing more than taking long rides and traveling the country with her husband Allen — her "Mr. Wonderful" — visiting family, cousins, and friends along the way. At home, you could find her working word puzzles, watching game shows, listening to swamp pop music, and welcoming visitors through her door. Her home was always open, and her company was always a good time. No phone call or visit ended without her adamant "be careful" and "I love you the most!" — words she never let her RaRa (Rylee), Coleman (Cole), or Dr. Doodle (Claire) leave without hearing. Those grandkids were her world, and she made sure they never doubted it.

She was preceded in death by her daughter, Riki Jo Legnon Leader — the mini version of Sheila herself; her parents, Kenneth and Aletha Ilene Martin George; and her great nephew, Cole Horton. She is survived by her husband, Allen Bentley; her son, Buddy Legnon (Crystal); stepchildren, Amy Bentley-Smith (Sean), Allison Wilson (Greg), Patrick Bentley, and Peyton Bentley; her grandchildren, Rylee Leader, Cole Legnon, and Claire Acevedo (Brennan); step-grandchildren, Jake Wilson and Christian Warren; her siblings, Constance Broussard (Errol), Alan George, Judith Rouly (Lawson), Mark George, and Margaret Clements (Chris); and numerous nieces, nephews, extended family, and dear friends who will miss her spunk, her laughter, and her unwavering love.

Sheila's legacy lives on in the countless lives she touched — from neighbors who knew her for decades to friends she'd had since she was thirteen years old. She never met a stranger, was always up for a good story, a cold glass of Coke, and great conversation with friends. Rest easy, Red.

Visitation will be held on Friday, April 17, 2026, from 6:00 PM to 8:00 PM. Visitation will resume on Saturday, April 18, 2026, at 9:00 AM to Funeral Service at 11:00 AM at Ourso Funeral Home, 13533 Airline Highway, Gonzales, LA 70737. Burial to follow at Hope Haven Cemetery, Hwy 30, Gonzales, Louisiana. In lieu of flowers please consider a donation to Cara's House in Gonzales or Wounded Warriors Project.