The Venerable Archdeacon Frank Bentley

The Venerable Archdeacon Frank Bentley passed away on 15 November 2024 at the age of 90.

Frank studied for his priesthood at King’s. A devoted member of the church, he served in several parishes across the UK. This included five years spent as Chaplain to Her Majesty The Queen.

Formative years

Born in London, Frank was evacuated to Somerset in the outbreak of World War II, along with his brother John. He was later reunited with his mother, and the family settled in a small village near Yeovil. 

Frank took up National Service after leaving school. Post-war, he served in occupied Germany as part of the British Army of the Rhine, rising through the ranks to become a sergeant.

This was a significant time for Frank. He discovered a talent for teaching, helping service men learn to read and write. It was also here that he met his first wife, Muriel, who tragically passed away during the couple’s first year of marriage.

A true pastor

Frank returned to the UK to begin his priesthood training at King’s. He was ordained in 1958. That same year, Frank returned to Somerset, where he served in the Diocese of Bath and Wells. Two years later, he married his second wife, Yvonne, who died in 2000.

In 1976, Frank and his family moved to Worcester, where he took up a post as the Vicar of St John in Bedwardine. Frank was known by the community for his gentle sense of humour and ability to see the best in people. In the words of Bishop’s Chaplain Stuart Currie: ‘Frank cared about church buildings, but he cared more about people – a true pastor.’

A man of many talents

Frank remained in Bedwardine until his retirement in 1999. He took an active role in his church youth club and will be remembered by its members for his formidable table tennis skills.

Among other talents, Frank was an accomplished pianist and a keen gardener. He kept up the piano well into his retirement, for as long as his hearing allowed him to continue playing.

Frank is survived by his third wife, Kathleen, his four children, nine grandchildren and six great-grandchildren. Our thoughts are with them as they mourn his loss.

Details for this obituary were taken from The Church of England website.