Roseann Knauer Bentley, a dedicated advocate for education and a trailblazing figure in Missouri politics, passed away on July 14 in Springfield at the age of 89. Bentley was celebrated as the first woman elected to the state Senate from southwest Missouri, leaving behind a legacy of service and commitment to the well-being of children.
A Life Dedicated to Education
Bentley’s passion for education spanned decades. Her work focused on advocating for early learning initiatives and programs for gifted students. Former Drury University President Todd Parnell, who co-chaired the Every Child Promise with his wife Betty, expressed the deep sense of loss felt by the community. He regarded Bentley as a “heroine” for her understanding of the crucial role early childhood education plays in a child’s life.
Bentley’s journey began in Springfield, where she grew up alongside her siblings. Her early career included teaching kindergarten and first grade, laying the foundation for her future advocacy. She further served on the Springfield school board and the Missouri Board of Education, gaining invaluable experience that would inform her later work in the state Senate.
A Voice in the Missouri Senate
In 1995, Bentley was elected to the Missouri Senate, representing the Springfield area until 2003. During her tenure, she championed legislation that supported early childhood programs and expanded educational opportunities for children across the state. Kimberly Shinn-Brown, director of Head Start at the Ozarks Area Community Action Corporation, highlighted Bentley’s instrumental role in establishing state-funded Early Head Start and supporting Parents as Teachers. Shinn-Brown emphasized Bentley’s ability to garner bipartisan support for early education, underscoring its importance for all children.
Community Involvement and Leadership
Beyond her legislative work, Bentley was deeply involved in her community. She was a founding member of the Community Partnership of the Ozarks (CPO) Board of Directors, serving for over 20 years and holding the position of board president in 2009. She also dedicated more than 10 years to the statewide Families and Community Trust (FACT) board and contributed to the National Association of State Boards of Education and the Parents As Teachers National Board.
Jennifer Kennally, former president and CEO of the United Way of the Ozarks, fondly recalled seeking Bentley’s insights on various community issues. She admired Bentley’s keen instincts and unwavering determination to improve the community. Kennally described her as a “relentless public servant.”
Championing Women in Leadership
Emily Fox, former CEO and executive director of the Discovery Center, emphasized Bentley’s commitment to empowering women. Fox, who remained in contact with Bentley even after relocating, noted that Bentley consistently encouraged women to pursue leadership roles and offered unwavering support.
Fox also remembered Bentley as a down-to-earth and approachable individual who genuinely cared about people and education. She believed Bentley entered politics not for personal gain but to make a tangible difference in the lives of others.
Continued Service and Recognition
Following her time in the Missouri General Assembly, Bentley served as a Greene County Commissioner for 12 years, retiring in 2016. Dana Carroll, who worked extensively in early childhood education at CPO, described Bentley as a “brave leader” who “fought hard and stood tall.” Carroll considered Bentley a mentor who encouraged her to “dream big.”
Sara Lampe, a former Missouri House representative and longtime principal of the Phelps Center for the Gifted in Springfield, credited Bentley’s pioneering efforts for enabling advancements in gifted education. Lampe noted Bentley’s early support for bringing the International Baccalaureate program to Springfield Public Schools.
A Lasting Legacy
Bentley’s contributions extended to the founding of Ozarks Public Television in the early 1970s and the United Way of the Ozarks Day of Caring in 1993. In 2023, the Roseann Bentley Musical Playground was dedicated in Phelps Grove Park, serving as a tribute to her life and values.
Janet Dankert, president and CEO of CPO, described the playground as a “vibrant, living tribute” to Bentley. Dankert acknowledged Bentley as a mentor whose guidance was invaluable during her tenure as CEO of CPO. She also recognized Bentley as a “trailblazer for women in public life,” expressing gratitude for the path she paved for others.
In 2016, Springfield Public Schools honored Bentley by naming its new administrative center on Sunshine Street after her. Tom Prater, who served on both the Springfield school board and City Council, recalled looking up to Bentley during her time on the school board. He expressed his satisfaction in voting to name the administration building in her honor.
Judy Brunner, president of the Springfield school board, hailed Bentley as a “legend” who dedicated her life to serving others. Brunner highlighted Bentley’s forward-thinking approach to female leadership and her unwavering commitment to providing a quality education for all students, with a particular focus on gifted education.
In 2003, the Springfield Area Chamber of Commerce recognized Bentley’s contributions with its annual Springfieldian award.
Bentley was married to physician and humanitarian John Bentley, who preceded her in death in 2023. She is survived by her four children – Jeff, Chris, Melissa, and Jonathan – as well as numerous grandchildren and great-grandchildren. Her son, Jeff Bentley, described her as having lived “a pretty full life.” Services are being handled by Gorman-Scharpf Funeral Home.