Grace M. Bentley-Scheck

Grace M. Bentley-Scheck, a celebrated art teacher and printmaker, passed away peacefully at her home on September 7, 2025, at the age of 88. Born on April 20, 1937, in Troy, NY, Grace devoted her life to the arts, inspiring countless students and collectors with her creativity and passion for printmaking.

Grace’s artistic journey with a robust education, earning both her BFA and MFA from the New York State College of Ceramics at Alfred University. Since 1972, she pursued a fulfilling career as a full-time printmaker, establishing her art studio, Sassafras Press. Her work has transcended borders, being exhibited in the United States, Poland, Germany, Austria, the Czech Republic, Ireland, and Australia. Grace's art has been included in numerous private and public collections, notably at prestigious venues such as the Portland Art Museum in Oregon, the Knoxville Museum of Art in Tennessee, and the Newport Art Museum in Rhode Island.

Throughout her life, Grace not only contributed to the art world but also fostered a loving family that continues to cherish her memory. She leaves behind her beloved family members, including her nephew, James Shirmer and his wife Ellen, along with their daughter Libby Loomis; her niece, Barbara St. Gelais and her husband Leonard, and their children Aaron, Ryan, and Kirk; Christine Windover and her husband Douglas, and their daughter Nicole Pulver; her nephew William Shirmer and his wife Kathy; Stanley Peak and his children Christina Hellman and Kevin Peak; Lynda Minozzi and her husband Johnny, and their son Eric Natel; Bette Daloia and her husband Gerry and their sons Vincent, Dominic, and Michael; and Rev. Robert and Brenda Peak with their children Andrew Peak, Allison Moon, and Benjamin Peak; and Charles Scheck, Jr.

Grace was predeceased by her husband, George Frederick Scheck, and her parents, John Franklin P. Bentley and Gladys (Sickler) Bentley. Her artistic legacy and the love she shared with family and friends will be cherished and remembered by all who had the privilege of knowing her.

Grace will be interred with her husband at Saratoga National Cemetery in Schuylerville, NY at a later date.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the ASPCA, PO Box 96929, Washington, DC 20077-7127.