Hendersonville, Tennessee — A wave of sorrow has swept through the Knox Doss Middle School at Drakes Creek community after 13-year-old Bentlee Whitley passed away on Sunday, November 30th, following injuries from an ATV incident. Her family, classmates, and teachers are deeply mourning a young life remembered for kindness, laughter, and an unmistakably bright spirit.

School administrators shared the heartbreaking news with families, reflecting on Bentlee’s generosity and the joy she brought to the school community. They noted that in her final act of compassion, Bentlee chose to be an organ donor, a decision that has already given four individuals the gift of life — a lasting testament to her caring nature.

Remembering a Beloved Student

Friends and teachers describe Bentlee as someone who lit up every room she entered. Her smile, sense of humor, and natural ability to uplift those around her made her a treasured presence at Knox Doss Middle School.

To honor her memory, the school will hold a Blue Out this Thursday — during school hours and at the evening home basketball game — in recognition of Bentlee’s favorite color. The Knox Doss dance team, where Bentlee once participated, will also offer a special tribute performance.

Celebration of Life Planned

A Celebration of Life event has been scheduled for Sunday, December 7th at Long Hollow Church, where the community will gather to honor Bentlee’s life, her character, and the impact she made in just 13 years.

In support of Bentlee’s family during this difficult time, friends and community members have organized a GoFundMe to help with expenses and provide comfort as they navigate this unimaginable loss.

Support link:
https://www.gofundme.com/f/support-for-Springer-family

A Community Holding Tight to Each Other

Those who knew Bentlee say she was the kind of child who loved making others laugh and worked hard to spread happiness wherever she went. Her absence leaves a deep ache in the hearts of many, but her legacy of generosity and joy continues to guide the community forward.

Students, educators, and families are being encouraged to keep Bentlee’s loved ones close in their thoughts as they face the days ahead.

Bentlee Whitley will be remembered for her warmth, her kindness, and the extraordinary compassion she showed — even in her final moments.