It is with deep sadness and profound love that we announce the passing of Fred “Bentley” Hawley at the age of 85 on February 14, 2025, peacefully surrounded by his loved ones. A beloved husband, father, grandfather, great grandfather, employer, and friend.
Bentley was born on January 15, 1940, in Marlow, Oklahoma to Lena and Fred Hawley. He grew up in the oil fields of West Texas where he attended Lubbock High School and later moved to Grandfalls, Texas where he graduated from high school. He attended Abilene Christian College and Southwestern Oklahoma University receiving his degree in Pharmacy in 1963.
After marrying the love of his life, RayeAnne, they planted roots in Odessa. Their 60-year marriage was the exemplification of true love, built on respect, trust, and a shared commitment to each other and their family. They had two beautiful daughters, Leslie Lynn and Kelle Jo.
Bentley spent his career owning and operating Evans Pharmacy, a cornerstone of the community. For over five decades, he served his customers with unparalleled dedication, providing both medical care and a listening ear. He served in larger organizations in the medical community including as President of the Texas Pharmacy Association and on the Board of Texas Tech Pharmacy School. His compassionate spirit and tireless work ethic made Evans Pharmacy more than just a business. It was a place where friends gathered, lives were enriched, and a sense of community thrived.
He attended 6th and Jackson Church of Christ for forty-four years where he and his wife mentored and inspired countless young people. They later became faithful members of Fairmont Park Church of Christ in Midland. Bentley was a dedicated advocate for youth development and made a lasting impact in his community through his service. His support of young people extended beyond the church as he served as president of the United Girls Softball Association, fostering a love for sports, teamwork, and sportsmanship in young athletes. Bentley supported various youth sports teams and established numerous youth scholarships, including the Kelle Jo Hawley Scholarship at Abilene Christian University, which honored the memory of his beloved daughter.
He was preceded in death by his parents Lena and Fred Hawley, his brother Dewey Alford, his niece Robin West, and his beloved daughter, Kelle Jo. Bentley is survived by his wife, RayeAnne, his daughter, Leslie Wilson and husband Mark of Abilene, son by choice, Rex Lamberti and wife Jodi of Shenandoah, grandchildren, Kelle “Case” Wilson and his wife Sarah of Abilene, MacKenzi Lindley and husband Lance of Abilene, Landri Wilson of Dallas, Regan Lewis and husband Justin of Mountain Home, Idaho, Jett Lamberti of Houston, and Jax Lamberti of Shenandoah; great-grandchildren Collins and Stevie Jo Wilson, and Madeline and McLane Lindley, and a host of other cherished family members and friends.
Bentley will live on through the countless lives he impacted, his unwavering commitment to God, family, and his community, and the enduring example he set. Bentley’s memory will remain a beacon of kindness, integrity, and strength. His legacy of faith and love will guide our steps each day as we hold fast to the hope we have in Jesus and strive toward the day we can also hear “Well done, good and faithful servant.”
A celebration of Bentley’s life will be held at Fairmont Park Church of Christ in Midland on March 8, 2025, at 1:00 PM with a reception to follow.
In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to Angels N Aprons Women’s Ministry, P.O. Box 3307, Odessa, TX 79760, or United Girls Fastpitch, 6112 Appaloosa Ln., Odessa, TX 79762, both causes close to Bentley’s heart.
Condolences, memories, and tributes can be offered to the family at heartlandfuneralhome.net