Billy Gene Bentley, 79, of Tylertown, Mississippi, passed away Wednesday, January 24, 2024 at Forrest General Hospital in Hattiesburg, Mississippi. He was born on Saturday, July 1, 1944 in Memphis, Tennessee to James and Peggy Bentley.

Mr. Bill played center for the 1961 and 1962 Oakhaven High School football team which included the 1961 championship under Coach Joe Clayton. He had a remarkable gift for working with animals that he used in his lifelong career with the rodeo industry. Mr. Bill was an avid history buff, always sharing his knowledge with others and forever turning the car around to read a historical marker. He enjoyed traveling with the rodeo, being in nature, exploring our country, and listening to football games on the radio. He also enjoyed visiting the Memphis Zoo whenever he was back in his hometown and held a zoo membership since 1987.

He was preceded in death by his son Michael Andrew Bentley; father James Edward Bentley; mother Mary "Peggy" Evelyn Williams Bentley; and his brothers, James "Jimmy" Bentley, Jr. and Robert William Bentley.

Survivors include his children, Alison Leigh Bentley and William Warren Bentley; brother Richard Allen Bentley; sister Mary Ellen Hostetler; and best friend, Jan Nunn.

Memorial donations may be made to Centerville Baptist Church in Tylertown, Mississippi, where Mr. Bill found food, fellowship, and God's grace.