Big Stone Gap, Va.-Buford James Bentley, 77, passed away on Saturday, December 4, 2021, at Norton Community Hospital.
He was a lifelong resident of Big Stone Gap. Buford was the first certified master plumber in the Big Stone Gap area. He loved fishing, hunting, and especially, spending time with his grandchildren. He served in the U. S. Army, having been stationed in Germany.
Buford was preceded in death by a grandson, Brandon Bentley; his parents, Alonzo and Ethel (Gambrel) Bentley; two brothers, Curtis Bentley and Haskell Bentley; and six sisters, Lavada Yeary, Daisy Harless, Jean Johnson, Lonnie Harkleroad, Patsy Sturgill and Joyce Bolling.
Surviving are his wife of 57 years, Sandra Bentley; son, Greg Bentley (Kelly), Big Stone Gap; daughter, Meshell Austin (Tim), Big Stone Gap; grandchildren, Shawn Austin, Casey Bentley and Ryan Austin; great grandchildren, Waylon Bentley, Camden Bentley, Finley Austin, Bella Summers and Emmy Summers; and several nieces and nephews.
It was Buford’s wishes to be cremated and the family will announce a memorial service at a later date.
Gilliam Funeral Home and Crematory is honored to serve the Bentley family.