Louie Stanley Bentley, 84, of South Shore, Kentucky, passed away on January 30, 2026, following a brief illness, surrounded by family. He was born on June 29, 1941, to the late Mose and Ruth Bentley.
Louie graduated from McKell High School and then served in the Navy for ten years, including duty in Vietnam, before being honorably discharged. After his military service, he pursued a career in various sanitation departments, working in Atlanta, Georgia; Waverly, Ohio; and Olive Hill, Kentucky. He ultimately retired from the South Shore, Kentucky, Sanitation Department. Notably, he was recognized for his role as a “professional” Santa Claus.
In addition to his parents, Louie was preceded in death by his eldest son, Michael Bentley.
He is survived by his beloved wife, Vickie McKenzie Bentley, and his three daughters: Michelle (Sam) Senn of Helena, Montana; Elizabeth (Richard) Miller of Allen Creek, West Virginia; and Jessica Leport of South Shore, Kentucky. He is also survived by his son, Daniel (Brittany) Leport of South Shore, Kentucky, as well as several grandchildren, great-grandchildren, nieces, nephews, and many friends and family who will deeply miss him.
A memorial service will be held at a later date, as requested by the family. Louie is under the care of Morton-Hunt Family Funeral Home.