Remembering Bentley Anderson
Family and friends pay tribute to retired VWC professor of theater/communications
By Staff | April 5, 2011
Bentley Anderson, professor of theater/communications, passed away on March 30, 2011. His career at Virginia Wesleyan College began in 1972 and after 32 years of teaching at the College, he retired in 2004. A Hampton Roads native, he will be remembered for his love of theatre, speech, and his fondness for bicycling around campus.
“Bentley was a very gifted actor and he gave productions his personal stamp,” said Kathy Merlock Jackson, professor of Communications.
Anderson first recommended the Black Box Theatre in the Fine Arts Building and it’s estimated that he had been involved with more than 100 plays at VWC, engaged in roles ranging from director to set designer. Anderson also taught speech classes for the Communications Department.
“Bentley’s passion was diction,” said Jackson. “He wanted his students to speak properly and articulately. In fact, the license plate on his car was ‘diction.’ He approached speech from more of a performance aspect and a lot of students benefited from his approach,” said Jackson. “He was a colorful member of our campus community and I think we’ll most remember him for his acting and directing,” said Jackson.
A memorial service was held for Bentley Anderson on Saturday, April 2, 2011 at 5 p.m. in the Hofheimer Theater on the campus of Virginia Wesleyan College. Former VWC Chaplain Scott Davis presided over the service with assistance from current Chaplain Greg West. Colleague and family friend Dr. Stephen Emmanuel offered a moving tribute.
Read Bentley Anderson's obituary from the Virginian-Pilot.