It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Sonni Bentley, 71, who passed away at 3 p.m. on Tuesday, Oct. 8, in Lake Charles, La.  A beloved mother, grandmother, and cherished friend, Sonni was known for her heartfelt cards, handwritten notes, and unwavering love for her family.

Sonni was born Nov. 8, 1952. Sonni grew up in Kinder and attended Kinder High School. She attended McNeese State University where she earned a B.A. Degree in Early Childhood Education and a M.Ed. in Elementary Education. She certified in Administration and Supervision earning 30 plus hours at McNeese State University. Sonni taught in Jeff Davis Parish for 19 years and then served as an administrator for 15 years. 

In retirement, Sonni often said how blessed she felt for her 34 year career in education and how it provided her with fond memories that added to her enjoyment in retirement. God also blessed Sonni with three precious granddaughters to enjoy in her retirement years. She loved them dearly and would always say they were pure joy sent to her from God above.

Sonni was a member of Trinity Baptist Church in Lake Charles where she would smile and say she was a “Back Row Baptist.” She enjoyed attending church and encouraged others to join her where she assured them they would hear a word of hope by the Rev. Steve James or one of his Associate Pastors. 

Those left to cherish her memory are her son, Mark and his wife, Erin Marcantel Bentley; granddaughters, Charis, Blythe, and Amelie Bentley; sister, Kathi Rye, and several nephews, and cousins. 

Sonni was preceded in death by her husband of 49 years, Delmar “Dale” Bentley; parents, Everett Leo Lanier and Jessie Allen Lanier Sattler, and step dad, Lubert “Lou” Sattler. Tuff, Sonni’s beautiful and beloved basset hound, also preceded her in death. 

Funeral services will be held at Trinity Baptist Church, Lake Charles, Louisiana on Saturday, Oct. 12, 2024, beginning at 3 p.m.  A gathering of family and friends will begin at 1 p.m. and will continue until the time of service. Burial will follow at Liberty Cemetery in Elton, La. The family has entrusted funeral arrangements to Johnson Funeral Home.

The family would like to offer special thanks to Pastor Tyler Bushnell, Pastor Chuck Huddleston, and Savannah Liliedahl with Livingway Pentecostal Church, LCPD Officer Thomas Merritt, as well as Kenny and Gavan Guillory with Lake Charles Toyota for their support and kindness during her time of medical crisis. 

In lieu of flowers donations may be made to an animal rescue foundation or charity of one’s choice.