Dianne Jones Bentley has returned to her home of Montgomery to stand beside her
husband as the First Lady of the state of Alabama. She is a graduate of Lanier
High School and then continued to the University of Alabama to pursue a degree
in bacteriology. She met Robert Bentley during his first year of medical school
and married him on July 24, 1965.
They began their family with a son John Mark but then Paul, Luke, and Matthew
followed. Two are adopted but they have all been loved so long, she has
forgotten which two they are. Today the family has expanded with three
daughters-in-law, and six granddaughters. Prior to the gubernatorial election,
the Bentley’s resided in Tuscaloosa, where his dermatology practice is located.
While in Tuscaloosa, she was a member of First Baptist Church. She facilitated a
women’s bible study for thirty years and taught Sunday school for twenty-eight
years. Faith is an important part of her life; it is where she finds her peace,
joy, and comfort. She firmly believes that God has given her this opportunity to
serve alongside her husband and will continue to put full trust in Him.
In her spare time she enjoys working with her quilters’ guild. They have
produced many products that have been sold and put on display throughout the
state. One of her favorite memories was inspired by a magazine article about
“ugly quilts.” These are made of pieces of fabric that are so ugly that no one
would want to steal them. These quilts were made and rolled up using old ties
and then distributed to the homeless in surrounding communities.
She has a heart for the people of Alabama and has chosen to promote
volunteerism, families, and children across the state. There are many
opportunities for involvement but most do not know where to look. If the
citizens of the state are willing to gather behind others then true change can
happen. The next four years may be a struggle due to the current economic
situation; however as the First Lady there is a great opportunity to inspire
growth.
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