Annie Bentley

Annie Ruth Bentley was born April 3, 1962, to the late Buford and Elizabeth Graham. She was the fifth and feisty child—full of fire, laughter, and love. Her vibrant spirit lit up every room she entered, and her joy for life was contagious to all who crossed her path.

She passed away peacefully at Fort Sanders Medical Center on August 27, 2025, with her devoted husband Greg Bentley by her side. Annie leaves behind two loving daughters, Tamisha Shervington and Keisha (Tyson) Bivins, who carry her strength and grace forward. Her five grandchildren; Anthony, Amya, Alijah, Solomon, and Tylee and two great-grandchildren, Iz’Lynn and I’zaye will forever cherish the love and wisdom Nana poured into them. 

She was preceded in death by her parents and five siblings: Charles Casey, Sidney Graham, Willie Graham, Mary Graham, and Patricia Graham. She is survived by her baby brother JohnLee Graham (Elaine), Sister-n-law Denise Bradford, Brother-n-law's Charles Bentley and Rex Moore who will continue to honor her memory with pride.

Annie also leaves behind a beloved aunt, a host of cousins, nieces, nephews, great-nieces, and great-nephews—each touched by her generosity, humor, and unwavering devotion to family.

Raised in Clinton, TN, Annie graduated from Clinton High School and worked at Eagle Bend Manufacturing, where she was known for her diligence and camaraderie. She later moved to Knoxville to raise her daughters, building a life rooted in faith, friendship, and resilience. In her later years, she found joy working at Goodwill, staying active and connected to her community. In 2016, Annie married Greg Bentley, and together they served the Lord faithfully. She was a proud and active member of Bethel Apostolic Church, where she was known for her warm invitations to worship and her steadfast commitment to ministry. Annie’s faith was not just spoken—it was lived. She prayed boldly, loved fiercely, and gave generously.

Annie will be remembered most for her spunk, her sass, and her boundless love for her family. She was a fighter—tenacious and brave—who defied odds and expectations with grace and grit. Whether she was spoiling her grandbabies, riding rollercoasters at age 63, or standing firm in her convictions, Annie showed us all what it meant to live fully and love deeply.

Though Annie’s earthly journey has ended, her spirit lives on—in every prayer whispered, every memory shared, and every act of love inspired by her example.

The family plans to meet at 10:30am at Jarnigan & Son Chapel to ride together to the service. The family will receive friends from 11:30am, to 12:30pm on Saturday, September 6, 2025 @ Bethel Apostolic Temple, located at 319 Douglas Ave., Knoxville, TN with a service to immediately follow. Interment will be at Oak Ridge Memorial Park, located at 1501 Bethel Valley Rd, Oak Ridge, TN 37830 immediately after service.

Acknowledgments

The family of Annie Ruth Bentley wishes to express heartfelt gratitude for your prayers, calls, visits, and acts of kindness during this time of bereavement. Your love has been a source of strength and comfort.