Of Guelph, formerly of Streetsville, passed away peacefully in her 93rd year at Hospice Wellington on Friday, September 12, 2025. Beloved wife and life partner of the late Lorne (Bertram) Bentley (2018), her husband of 64 years. Deeply loved mother of Lynn (Garry), Lori (John), Kevin (Barb) and Lisa. Adored grandmother of William, Justine, Alana (Jake) and Danielle (Mike). Dear sister of Ken McCutcheon (Lynne); predeceased by her brother Earl McCutcheon (Jackie) in 2024, and her brother-in-law Gordon Bentley (Jane) in 2023. She will be greatly missed by her family and friends. Shirley was born in Eramosa Township, went to high school in Guelph, attended teacher’s college in Hamilton and then began teaching in Streetsville. It was there that she met and married Lorne, and together they raised four children. After Lorne’s retirement they moved to Puslinch, and then to Riverside Residences in Guelph. Most recently she lived at Chartwell Retirement Residence. Shirley completed her Bachelor of Arts degree at University of Toronto on a part time basis. Throughout her life, Shirley devoted much of her time to volunteer work, most recently at Guelph General Hospital and Duff’s Presbyterian Church. She will be remembered for her smile and kindness. There will be a private Celebration of Life. The family would like to extend their gratitude to the staff at Chartwell and Hospice Wellington for their compassionate care. Arrangements entrusted to the Wall-Custance Funeral Home & Chapel 519-822-0051 / www.wallcustance.com. In lieu of flowers memorial donations may be made to Hospice Wellington, Guelph General Hospital or Duff’s Presbyterian Church. A tree will be planted in memory of Shirley J. Bentley in the Wall-Custance Memorial Forest.
