Bentley and Baker
February 3, 2013
Resided in:
Clyde, NC
Charlotte Nell Bentley, and her husband, Richard J. Baker, Sr., of Redfield Dr., Clyde, died within four days of each other at Mission Hospital, she on Sunday, February 3, 2013, and he on Thursday, February 7, 2013.
Charlotte was born in Albany, GA, and was a daughter of the late Nicholas and Lucille Sarachene. She was also preceded in death by a son, Bobby Gregory.
Richard was born in London, England and was a son of the late Les and Judy Baker.
Because of his love for travel and adventure he had lived in Canada, the Bahamas, Florida and Indiana before moving to Clyde, where he worked with Schwan's Food Company. His primary vocation had been as a newspaper editor in several major markets and he was in demand because of his management skills.
Charlotte was the founder and editor of PinBuster, a Florida newspaper devoted to bowling enthusiasts.
Together they were very involved with rescue animals and at the time of their passing they were caring for nine dogs.
They are survived by daughters Cathi Jacobs and Cherie Baker; sons, David Shamer and Richard Baker, Jr.; grandchildren Phillip, Anthony, Mariah, Ashley, Joshua, Jonas, Noah, and Anna-Sophia; great-grandchildren Yarielle and Dejah.
Richard was preceded in death by a sister, Patty McDonald and Charlotte is also survived by a brother, Carl Sarachene and a stepdaughter, Cindy Hanson.
A joint memorial service will be held Friday at 1:30 at the residence.
Perpetual endowments will be established in their memory at Brother Wolfe, 31 Glendale Avenue, Asheville, NC 28801, and at Sarges Animal Rescue Foundation, 256 Industrial Park Drive, Waynesville, NC 28786.
Groce Funeral Home on Patton Ave. is assisting the family.
Asheville Butterfly Trail






We would like to offer our condolences to the family and friends of Charlotte and Richard. We have know Rich for many years but unfortunately did not meet Charlotte. Rich was a prince of an individual that would give the shirt off his back. Very proud of his kid’s accomplishments. Our thoughts and prayers are with all of you.
Our most heartfelt condolences go out to family and friends
Sorry to read about the passing of Charlotte & her husband Richard. Fifteen years ago Charlotte was one of my sponsors for an SPCA walk in Florida. Upon bringing her pledge to the SPCA, I found a beautiful black puppy, whom we adopted as a playmate for our other dog, Bailey. We gave Charlotte the honor of naming our newly adopted friend and she named him “Buster”. We still have both of them and thank Charlotte for being responsible for bringing Buster into our lives. Our condolences to the families; may Charlotte & Richard rest in peace.
Sadly, the bowling world has lost a great contributor. Although only circulated throughout Central Florida, Charlotte’s ‘Pin Buster’ was widely respected throughout the entire United States. ‘Pin Buster’ was old-school newspapering. ‘Cutting and pasting’ was literally that. We spent many a deadline, glueing down columns to get to the printer on time. Then Charlotte would spend the day delivering the papers to the bowling centers. Many also will remember Charlotte for her work at Pasadena’s Gigi’s Italian Restaurant. Although Charlotte and Richard have left us, there memories will live on. -30-
My heart is broken over the loss of Charlotte and Richard. Charlotte was such a bright light every time I saw her. She had the gift of a ready smile, warm heart, positivity and affirmation that always left me feeling uplifted. Richard was a fun and gentle soul who fought his cancer with more grace than I think i’ve ever seen. I will miss them both dearly.