Harrison Bentley's Obituary
Harrison Bentley, 77, passed away peacefully at home on January 26, 2025, in Ponte Vedra, Florida. Born on December 25, 1947, in New York, Harrison was the beloved child of Fela and Jack.
A proud graduate of Long Island University in 1971, Harrison embarked on a dynamic and fulfilling career that spanned many industries. He was a teacher, flower shop owner, hospital administrator, nursing facility owner, and the owner of a Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory. For 35 years, he also served as the president of John Casablancas Modeling of South Florida. A true serial entrepreneur, Harrison was a pioneer in the wireless telecom industry, leaving an indelible mark wherever he went.
Harrison was best known for his boundless love and selfless acts of kindness. He had a heart of gold and a unique ability to make everyone feel special, appreciated, and valued. Whether family, friend, or acquaintance, he always went above and beyond to brighten someone’s day. He married the love of his life, Laura Bentley, in 1970, and together they built a family full of love, laughter, and cherished memories.
Harrison’s passions were as vibrant as his personality. A skilled golfer and former club champion, he also loved traveling, rock 'n' roll music, and spending time with his family. With an encyclopedic knowledge of history and politics, he delighted in passionate debates and meaningful conversations. His dry wit, tremendous sense of humor, and love for hosting gatherings will be forever remembered. He was a man of many talents and interests, from his deep appreciation for animals to his lifelong love of ice cream. He was affectionately known by his grandchildren as "Biff" or "Biffy," a nickname that stuck so well that even their friends knew him by it.
Harrison is survived by his devoted wife of 55 years, Laura Bentley; his loving children, Ian Bentley and wife Carrie Bentley, and Jessica Bentley and spouse Michael Weg; and his cherished grandchildren, Holland, Jolie, Aria, Jett, and Hudson. He also leaves behind his sister, Dr. Betti Ressler and her spouse Dr. Allen Ressler, as well as many nieces, nephews, extended family, and dear friends.
A service to celebrate Harrison’s extraordinary life will be held on January 28, 2025, at 12 p.m. at Levitt-Weinstein Memorial Chapels and Cemeteries at Beth David (3201 North 72nd Avenue, Hollywood, FL 33024). In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests donations be made to the Alzheimer’s Association, www.alz.org, in his memory.
Following the services, the Bentley family will be receiving guests from Tuesday to Thursday. For those wishing to pay their condolences, please contact the Bentley family for the address.
Harrison Bentley will forever be remembered as a devoted husband, a phenomenal father, a caring grandfather, and a true friend to all. His legacy of love and kindness will live on in the hearts of everyone who knew him.
Arrangements by Levitt-Weinstein Beth David Memorial Gardens, (954) 963-2400.
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