James Wilbur Benton Jr. passed away July 31, 2017. He was born in Hawthorne, California on October 9, 1942 to his parents James and Jean Benton.
James moved to Texas as an infant. His fondest memories as a child were visiting his grandparents in California during the summer. He was a Cub Scout and graduated from Irving High School in 1961. He attended Arlington State College (currently University of Texas Arlington). He played the clarinet in the Rebel Band and was a member of Kapphi Kapphi Psi band fraternity. He worked 36 years at Vought Aircraft Co. loved the color blue and the theme song from "Titanic".
To avoid being drafted, James enlisted into the US Army. He served from 1965 - 1967 and received the National Defense Service Medal, Vietnam Service Medal with 1 Overseas Service Bar and 1 Bronze Star, Vietnam Campaign Medal and the Army Commendation Medal.
While at dinner one night a beautiful woman caught his eye. After watching her at an awkward dinner for several minutes he decided to rescue her by asking her to share a meal. They were married June 28, 1986 after dating for 6 years and just celebrated 31 years in love. He often said getting married was his proudest family moment.
James was a quiet, loving, generous man who enjoyed working in the yard and traveling. His favorite trips included visiting Colorado and Louisiana. He had a good sense of humor and made sure family always came first. When it came to his family he was very patient and tolerant. One of his favorite activities with his wife was pulling zingers on her, he would get so excited.
He is survived by his wife, Kathleen "Kathy" Benton; children: Terri Red and husband, Michael, Jerry Christison and wife, Ramona, James MacAvoy and wife, Dawn, Tammie Martin and husband, Joe; grandchildren: Justin Red, Joshua Red, Alexa Red, Jeffrey Fattig, Kaytlin Fattig, Kieran Christison, McKenna Christison, Heather MacAvoy, Sean MacAvoy, Melanie MacAvoy, Adeline MacAvoy, Emma MacAvoy, Steven Martin; great-grandchildren: Josilyn, Jazlynn, Zayyden, Raven, Kairi and Noah; brother, Dan Benton and wife Cynthia; nephews, Matt and Todd.
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January 9, 2018
Don Endsley
Cousin Fred let me know about Jimmy's passing. Nice to see all the pictures. I didn't really know Jimmy, but I enjoyed the conversations with his dad, Uncle Wilbur. I guess we are all getting old.
Thanks, Jimmy, for your service to our country.
Don Endsley
October 14, 2017
Heartfelt condolences are extended to your family at this difficult time. Seek the love and support God provides to help you cope during this time - Psalms 29:11
August 9, 2017
Terri Darity
August 09, 2017
A great man went home to be with our Lord. He will still be watching over Kathleen, just from afar now. My thoughts and prayers are with Jim's lovely wife, and my dear friend Kathleen, and the entire family. May God bless you all.
August 9, 2017
Terri Darity
A great man went home to be with our Lord. He will still be watching over Kathleen, just from afar now. My thoughts and prayers are with Jim's lovely wife, and my dear friend Kathleen, and the entire family. May God bless you all.
August 5, 2017
Jean Cook
I feel like I knew Jim. He was a wonderful man that took care of whatever needed his attention. I have never spoken to him directly but Kathleen has told us so much about him that it is hard to believe all that goodness could be in one man. She was so very lucky to be at the right place at the same time as him because he was truly her soul mate. But what makes the love story better than most is she was also his soul mate. It was like God made them for each other. I know Jim had a sense of humor because when us girls would get in a chat and he would come to see what Kathy was laughing about. He probably thought we were insane but he would laugh with us or maybe at us. It is so tragic that he is gone from this world but he will be waiting on his beloved wife when she gets there. Meanwhile he will look out for all those he loved from above where he can be pain free. He left behind so many wonderful memories to help comfort those that miss him. He will live on forever in the hearts of so many. May God open up the gates to heaven to let this angel in. He earned his wings and many jewels as his rewards from a lifetime of good deeds. Dear Lord please welcome him and bless him in heaven as you did on earth. I pray for him and his entire family but mainly for my dear friend who has to learn to live without him.
August 3, 2017
Friend
Gloria (Forester) Morris
So sorry to hear of your husband's death--may you have much peace and solace from the good memories that you have. Blessings to you and your family--
August 3, 2017
Sara Vennum Back
Kathy.... I love you dearly. My heart is full of grief w/ you in the loss of Jim. I'm thankful you had him for so very long in your life... grieved you have him no longer.
August 3, 2017
Our thoughts and prayers are with you, Kathy, and all the family as you celebrate this good man's life. Jim was a sweet man and was a great brother-in-law. We are thankful for the times we could visit and be together. May God give you strength and encouragement for the days ahead when you need it most. We love you. Gwen and Clyde (OKC)
August 2, 2017
Linda Reed
Keeping you tightly in my arms for hugs from far away. Just a few months ago, never thought I'd be writing this to you, neither one of us did. Love you my dear big sister, always and forever. Memories are in the heart, keep them safely tucked to pull them out when needed.
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