of Batesville, AR
December 2, 1925 - August 30, 2020
George Edward Bentz, Sr., 94, of Batesville went home to be with the Lord Sunday, August 30, 2020.
He was born December 2, 1925 in Batesville, Arkansas to Lillie Mae (Holland) Bentz.
George was drafted into the United States Navy during his senior year of high school and served during World War II; after serving he was honorably discharged and returned home to graduate from Batesville High School in 1947. He attended Arkansas College and played on their 1st Football team. He was instrumental in bringing the Porter train from Limedale to Riverside Park in 1964 and oversaw the maintenance of the train to this day. He was a lifelong member of First United Methodist Church in Batesville; served as Chairman of Batesville City Cemetery Committee and served on the Housing Authority Board; he was also President of Batesville Jaycee's for several years.
He retired from Arkansas Power and Light in 1988 after 41 years of dedicated service. He was named King White River in 2000; and was a Mason for 50+ years. He was an avid hunter and fisherman; he raised bird dogs; and he loved spending time with his grandchildren and great-grandchildren.
Survivors include his wife of 70 years, Geraldine (White) Bentz of the home; son, George Edward Bentz, Jr. of Batesville; two grandchildren, Brooke Bentz Stevenson (Marty) and Grant Pierce Bentz; one great-grandchild, Caroline Lilly Stevenson; as well as other relatives and many friends.
He was preceded in death by his mother.
Pallbearers are Dan Foley, Tommy Foley, Tommy Holland, Rick Elumbaugh, and Tim Dozier. Honorary pallbearers will be Grant Bentz, Marty Stevenson, Joe Foley, Skip Rutherford, Dr. Robert "Lit" Craig.
Graveside services will begin at 10:00 am Friday, September 4, 2020 at Oaklawn Cemetery in Batesville under the direction of Roller-Crouch Funeral Home with Dennis Wilson officiating.
Visitation will be from 5:00-7:00 pm Thursday, September 3, 2020 at Roller-Crouch Funeral Home.
We are complying with the Arkansas Department of Health guidelines and limiting visitation attendance to 50 people at one time. All attendees must provide and wear their own masks before entering and social distancing will be observed.
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12 Condolence(s)
Linda and David Hidy
Thursday, September 3, 2020
David and I were so sad to here of George’s death. George’s Mom, Lilly, was my babysitter and of course I loved George. He was such fun. Then as a young nurse at Dr Gray’s, it was my honor to work with Geri for many years. George and Geri have been friends all my life. He will be missed. Prayers of comfort for Geri and family.
Bobby Wyatt family
Thursday, September 3, 2020
We have been neighbors for years and we wanted to express our condolences in your loss of George. Thoughts and prayers.
Jerry, Dana and Zella solida
Wednesday, September 2, 2020
Martha McGinnis Healey
Tuesday, September 1, 2020
Growing up in First United Methodist Church I've known Mr. Bentz all of my life. One could never find a kinder person. His was certainly a life well-lived. My condolences to his family.
Greg Shaver
Tuesday, September 1, 2020
So sorry to hear of George's passing. He was a true gentleman. Condolences to the family.
Andrea Burnett
Monday, August 31, 2020
I am so sorry for your loss. Everyone is in our thoughts and prayers.
Clifton Avant
Monday, August 31, 2020
George was a great friend and mentor during my time in Batesville with Arkansas Power & Light. RIL my Friend!
Vikki Crow
Monday, August 31, 2020
My sincere condolences, prayers for comfort and peaceâ¤ï¸ðŸ™
Betty Burge Cockrill
Monday, August 31, 2020
My thoughts and prayers are with each of your families.
Johnny Baxter
Monday, August 31, 2020
I have known Mr. Bentz all my life and appreciated his kindness. Peace.......jb
Deborah Wyatt
Monday, August 31, 2020
So very sorry for the families loss of a a loved one.
Prayers for comfort.
Marcus and Glenda Bowers
Monday, August 31, 2020
What a life! He was always so kind to me since the day I met him. Marcus and I thought so much of him. God bless the family with peace.
Love and Hugs,
Glenda and Marcus