David Baxter Bentley

David Baxter Bentley, 71, of Athens, Ga was a long-time resident of Barrow County who went home to be with the Lord on November 5, 2025. He was preceded in death by his Parents, W. B. and Lois Bentley, as well as, Sisters Shirley Bentley Bryant, and Caroline Bentley Lee. Brothers William (Bud) Bentley and Billy Ray Bentley. He is also reunited in Heaven with one grandchild Paisley Jade Bentley, who passed away too soon — a loss he carried with love and hope until the day they met again.

David Baxter is survived by his loving wife Beth Shedd Bentley, two children, Amy Bentley Elrod (Dennis) of Winder and Joshua David Bentley (Jessica) of Jefferson. Four precious grandchildren, Hunter Neal Sims, Kaylyn Beth Elrod (Connor), Grayson Avery Bentley, and Reagan Jade Bentley who were his pride and joy. Loving sisters; Evelyn Bentley Weatherford, Rebecca Joyce Bentley, Juanita Bentley Jones, and Ruby Bentley Phillips; and a Brother Bobby Joe Bentley. He was a devoted and loving uncle to many nieces and nephews, and a proud great-uncle to great-nieces and nephews as well, all of whom cherished him deeply.

A man of deep faith, David was saved and knew exactly where he was going when his time came. His peace in that promise has brought comfort to those he leaves behind. His love for the Lord was evident in the way he lived, humble, kind, and steadfast in his devotion to family and faith.

He enjoyed camping and going to the beach, watching his grandkids play ball or participate in activities they enjoy, spending time outdoors, or serving at Jackson County Baptist Church, and the Neighborhood Gospel Missions Camp, his presence brought light and laughter to every gathering. His humor, and gentle heart will be deeply missed but never forgotten.

A celebration of David Bentley’s life will be held at 1:30pm, November 8, 2025, at Jackson County Baptist Church, with Matt Booher officiating. The family will receive friends at 11:30am until service time, November 8, 2025, at the Church. Family and friends are invited to join in honoring his memory and faith.

Though his earthly journey has ended, we take comfort knowing he is now in the presence of his Savior, healed and whole. His legacy of love, faith, and family will live on in all who knew him.

In lieu of flowers, contributions can be made to Neighborhood Gospel Mission Camp - P.O. Box 587 Lexington, Ga., 30648 or Jackson County Baptist Church - P.O. Box 1107 Jefferson, Ga., 30549.

Arrangements by Lawson Funeral Home, 4532 Hwy 53 Hoschton, Ga., 30548. Lawsonfuneralhome.org. 706-654-0966.