Ella Bentley Little

Ella Bentley Little, age 99, of Virgie, Kentucky, passed away on Tuesday, July 21, 2026 at the Pikeville Medical Center. She was born on March 2, 1927 at Beefhide, Kentucky.

Ella was the beloved daughter of Simon Bentley and Virgie Little Bentley, both preceding her in death. She walked through life with the support of family, finding companionship and joy in her marriages to Melvin Wright and Crit Little, both of whom also preceded her in passing. Throughout her long and eventful life, Ella demonstrated remarkable devotion to her roles as daughter, sister, wife, mother, and friend.

She is lovingly remembered by her children: Terry Wright, alongside his wife Diana; Jody Michael Wright and his spouse Trula; and Sharon Lynn Damron, each of whom carry forward her wisdom, kindness, and sense of family. Ella found further joy in her bond with her brother Teddy Bentley and his wife Ruby, as well as her sister, Betty Stewart. The warmth she shared with her extended family was a constant source of strength and happiness for all.

As we honor Ella’s memory, we reflect on the values she so beautifully embodied—resilience, compassion, and an abiding dedication to those she loved. Those who knew her remember her as a source of guidance and comfort, who quietly shaped the lives around her through countless acts of kindness, both great and small.

Her presence will be deeply missed and lovingly remembered by all whose lives she touched.

Visitation will be held on Wednesday, July 22, 2026, after 6 PM at the Union Old Regular Baptist Church.  Funeral services will be held on Friday at 12 Noon with Tony Bentley and others officiating.  Burial will follow in the Johnson-Bentley Cemetery at Beefhide, Kentucky.

Special services will be held on Wednesday and Thursday nights at 7 PM.