Troy N. Bentley

Troy N. Bentley, 76 passed away at his home in Clinton S.C. on March 27, 2026, he was surrounded by his family. Troy was born in Columbus Georgia on November 6th 1949 and was the son of the late Troy Bentley and Frances S. Bentley. He was also preceded in death by his brother Cecil Bentley. Troy was revered as a respected leader in the South Carolina fire service, devoted husband, father, papa, brother, and friend. His passing leaves behind a legacy of service, dedication, and love.

Troy spent much of his life serving his community through the City of Clinton Fire Department, where he rose through the ranks to become Fire Chief. His commitment to protecting others and mentoring fellow firefighters earned him deep respect across the state. In recognition of his lifelong dedication, Troy was inducted into the South Carolina State Firefighters’ Association Hall of Fame in 1996. He also proudly served as President of the South Carolina State Firefighters’ Association from 1993 to 1994, helping shape the future of fire service leadership in South Carolina.

Beyond his professional accomplishments, Troy was a man who valued family above all else. He was a devoted husband to Ann Bentley and a proud father to Brandon T. Bentley (wife Kelly Bentley) and Lisa B. Blackwell (husband Dwaine Blackwell). He was a loving papa to Bryce Bentley and Morgan Bentley, who brought him immense joy.

Troy is also survived by his brothers, Ronald Bentley and Joe Bentley (Carolyn) along with many extended family members, friends, and fellow firefighters whose lives he touched throughout his years of service.

He will be remembered not only for his leadership and dedication to public service, but for his strength of character, kindness, and the lasting impact he had on everyone who knew him.

A service to honor and celebrate Troy’s life will be held at Gray Funeral Home Chapel of Clinton on Wednesday, April 8, 2026 at 3:00 PM. The family will receive friends at the funeral home from 1:00 PM – 3:00 PM prior to the service. Burial will follow at Pinelawn Memory Gardens with Firemen Honors.

Though he may be gone from our sight, his legacy will continue to live on in the department he helped build, the firefighters he mentored, and the family he loved so deeply

In lieu of flowers, please honor Troy with donations to the South Carolina State Firefighters’ Association, PO Box 211725, Columbia, SC 29221 or Alzheimer’s Association, 225 N Michigan Ave. Floor 17 Chicago, IL 60601.

Condolences may be expressed to the family by visiting www.grayfuneralhome.com

Gray Funeral Home of Clinton is assisting the Bentley family with services.