Obituary of Joy Ann Bentley

Joy Ann Bentley, 73, of Woodstock, CT passed away unexpectedly on April 10, 2026. Born on December 30, 1952, she was the beloved daughter of Harry L. Sangren and Leonore (Sheldon). Joy grew up in Thompson, CT.

Joy was the devoted wife of Charles W. Bentley, whom she married on October 25, 1975 in Woodstock, CT. 

Joy had a deep and lifelong love for animals, especially horses and dogs. She was an accomplished equestrian who proudly earned first place in numerous horse shows with her cherished horse, Amber. Her passion for riding brought her great joy and a sense of freedom that defined much of her life. She also found endless companionship and happiness in the many dogs she cared for over the years. Some of her most cherished times were spent on Labor Day weekends watching the pet ponies and quarter horses at the Woodstock Fair Horse Show. Joy was a proud grandmother.

She leaves her husband Charles W. Bentley of Woodstock, CT; her two sons Jay Bentley of Woodstock, CT and Cary Bentley and his wife Sarah of Woodstock, CT; her grandchildren Tanner, Tatum, Morgan and Peyton.

Services will be private and are entrusted to Smith and Walker Funeral Home, Putnam, CT. Share a memory at Smithandwalkerfh.com