Sylvia J. (Chenaille) Bentley

Clayton, NC - Sylvia J. Bentley (Chenaille), 79, beloved wife of the late Melvyn C. Bentley, and cherished mother, grandmother, and friend, passed away on Thursday, October 30, 2025, in Raleigh, North Carolina surrounded by her daughters. Originally from Salem, New York, she lived most of her life in Cambridge, New York, before relocating to North Carolina 11 years ago.
She was a devoted mother to her three daughters: Heather Bentley of Ormond Beach, Florida; Melanie Cruz of Clayton, North Carolina; and Lindsay Giffi of Sloansville, New York. Her daughters’ lives were shaped by Sylvia’s kindness, wisdom, and unwavering love.
Sylvia was known for her generous heart, gentle spirit, and the way she made everyone around her feel valued and cared for. Her compassion touched countless lives. Lovingly referred to as Nana, she took immense pride and joy in her five grandchildren, Caroline and Emma Cruz, and Gianna, Grayson, and Isabella Giffi, cherishing every moment spent watching them grow.
Her family and friends will remember Sylvia as a woman of grace and strength—a source of comfort and support. Though she will be deeply missed, her legacy of warmth and love will continue to live on through the lives she touched.
In lieu of flowers, the family invites those wishing to celebrate her memory to donate to the PAN Foundation, PO Box 411439, Boston, MA 02241-1439 or online at https://www.panfoundation.org  in her name.

To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of Sylvia J. (Chenaille) Bentley, please visit our floral store.