Charlene (Bentley) McElroy

Charlene Bentley McElroy, born on March 18, 1939 in Millstone Kentucky, passed peacefully from this life on April 4, 2025, surrounded by her loving family being 86 years and 17 days old.

Charlene was the daughter of the late John “Buster” Bentley and Eula Mae Cuddie Bentley. She married her beloved husband, James “Bud” McElroy on April 28, 1956, Early on they lived in Cleveland, Ohio, but returned to the mountains of eastern Kentucky—the place they called home—to raise their family. Charlene and Bud built a life rooted in faith, hard work, and unconditional love. Together, they raised three sons: Jeff (Tina) McElroy of Payne Gap, Kentucky; Keith (Joanne) McElroy of Millstone, Kentucky; and Brian McElroy of Winchester, Kentucky. Charlene was the steady hand and gentle heart at the center of a large and loving family. She was a proud grandmother to Melena (Bruce) Outlaw, Mandy (Billy) Stamper, Jonathan (Megan) McElroy, Matt McElroy, and Jacob McElroy; and an adoring great- grandmother to Mason Outlaw, Tripp Stamper, Logan McElroy, Jauna McElroy, Scarlett Stamper, Jett Outlaw, Jayda McElroy, Madax McElroy, Landon McElroy, Maverick Stamper, Carson Adams, and Brady Adams.

She was preceded in death by her grandson, Matt McElroy, with whom she shared a very special bond. His passing was a sorrow she carried deeply.

Charlene was the caretaker of her family in every sense. She selflessly looked after her father, “Buster,” for 25 years, showing a depth of love and devotion that left a lasting example for all who witnessed it. Her love for her family was fierce and protective, and her home was the heart of the family where everyone gathered, especially around the dinner table. Mamaw’s cooking was
more than just food; it was love served warm, and no one ever left her home hungry.

Besides her family, Charlene found joy in life’s simple pleasures—cutting grass, weedeating, leaf blowing, and gardening. If her own yard work was done, she was quick to lend a hand to family, friends, or anyone who needed help with theirs. While on her mower, she would often spend time thinking about her beloved father, her husband Bud, and her grandson Matt. It was her
quiet way of keeping them close.

Charlene was also preceded in death by her husband Bud; her parents; her two brothers, Bobby Bentley and Billy Bentley; and her sister, Bernice “Sister” Nobel. She was the pillar of her family—a woman whose love built a foundation that generations will stand on for years to come. Her strength, grace, and unshakable loyalty will live on in the hearts of all who were blessed to know her.

Funeral: 4:00 O'clock P.M. Monday, April 7, 2025 at the Letcher Funeral Home Chapel with Bill Craft and Larry McElroy officiating. Visitation: 2:00 P.M. - 4:00 P.M. Monday at the Letcher Funeral Home Chapel. Burial will follow in the Riley Bentley Cemetery at Deane, Kentucky.