Bentlee Grace Whitley

Bentlee Grace Whitley, a bright and beautiful soul, spread her vibrant light over the lives of many during her 13 years. Born on December 21, 2011, in Cape Girardeau, Missouri, Bentlee graced the world with her magical spirit. Tragically, this loving daughter, devoted sister, and cherished friend left us too soon, passing away on November 30, 2025, in Memphis, Tennessee.

Known for her spunky, free-spirited personality, Bentlee was a radiant presence, embodying a creative and loving essence that captivated everyone she encountered. She embraced life with a sense of joy that shone brightly daily, from her love of the color pink to her joyful indulgence in Dr. Pepper and Chick-Fil-A. A true Momma's Girl, she shared an inseparable bond with her mother, Tiffany, and was profoundly devoted to her father, Malcolm. Their love for one another was a testament to the warmth and connection of family that Bentlee cherished.

Bentlee was a devoted member of Long Hollow Church, where she not only grew in her faith but found true joy in learning about the Lord. This past summer, she took the significant step of being baptized at church camp, a reflection of her loving spirit. She was deeply influenced by her connection with Sheph, who guided her on her spiritual journey. Bentlee's enthusiasm didn't stop at faith; she was also proud to be a member of the Knox Doss Dance Team during her 6th and 7th grade years, showcasing her talent and grace.

Her education journey took her from Portageville Elementary for her early years to William Burrus Elementary and, most recently, Knox Doss Drakes Creek Middle School, where she was in the 8th grade. Bentlee had an artistic flair and creativity that allowed her to flourish, and she was particularly known for uplifting her friends and family, always seeking to make their lives brighter with her infectious laughter and caring heart.

Bentlee’s adventurous spirit was complemented by her love for chatting on the phone with those closest to her. She lifted others in ways that were special, and if you knew Bentlee, you couldn’t help but love her fiercely. In an extraordinary act of compassion, Bentlee gave the ultimate gift in her passing, saving four other teenagers and giving them a chance at life.

She is deeply remembered and missed by her parents, Tiffany and Malcolm Springer; her paternal father, Stephen Barnett; her paternal grandfather, Stephen Barnett, Sr.; her twin brother, Brentley Whitley; her sister, Rilee Hunt (Dillian); and her little brothers, Korbin and Kollin Springer. Bentlee also leaves behind brothers Sib Springer (Miranda) and Isaac Springer (Emma); sister, Hannah Barnett; and brothers Caleb Pullum (Ashten), Brayden Barnett, and Blake Barnett. She was profoundly loved by her grandparents, including grandpa James Whitley, memaw Ladonna Whitley, and grandma and grandpa, Darlene and Mike Cagle. Her family network extended to her aunts Marsha Seater (Jason), Sumar Daughtery (Jerry), her uncle Curt Whitley (Kelley), and uncle Mackie Springer (Dava), as well as her adored nephews Kallen and Ellis Hunt, niece Pearl Springer, and nieces Emersyn Pullum, and nephews Rylan and Kasen Pullum.

Bentlee's circle of closest friends, including Danity Crutcher, Brielle Hackett, Emma Ragan, Laycie Bond, and Kennedy Hall, will forever hold onto the beautiful memories they created together.

A visitation will take place on December 7, 2025, at Long Hollow Church in Hendersonville, TN, from 2:00 PM to 4:00 PM, a moment for all to share in remembrance of her radiant life. Following the visitation, a Celebration of Life will begin at 4:00 PM, where all who loved Bentlee are invited to honor her remarkable spirit. Bentlee will be laid to rest at 11:00 A.M., Monday, December 8, 2025 at Beech Cemetery.

As we remember Bentlee Grace Whitley, let us also celebrate the love she spreads and the countless lives she touched. She will forever live on in our hearts and memories, a true angel among us.