December 4, 1949 ~ October 4, 2021
John Leslie Benton, 71, passed away October 4, 2021 at his home in Denham Springs. He was a devoted family man, a faithful Christian, and an avid golfer. He was born December 24, 1949 to parents, Mary Henrietta (Nook) Bencaz and C. Earle Benton, as was a lifelong resident of Denham Springs. He graduated from Denham Springs High School in 1967. He was a member of the Key Club and the golf team, and served on the yearbook staff. He graduated from Southeastern Louisiana College in 1971 with a B.S. Degree in Zoololgy and a minor in Chemistry, with plans to attend medical school. He married his high school sweetheart in 1972, as was married for 49 years. One of his favorite past times was always singing in harmony with his very musical family. When the Denham Springs Boys Choir was started by Regina Walker, John was a member. As a devoted member of First Baptist Church of Denham Springs, he also sang in his church choir productions, sang many duets and solos for his church, and taught Sunday School for many years. John served on the Civil Service Board and the Jury Commission for many years, and was proud to follow his father in service to the community.
He is survived by his wife of 49 years, Madelyn Wild Benton; his 5 children, Kathy Benton Harris, Emily Benton Barclay (Adam), John Benton, Jr. (Johanna), Will Benton (Kellie), Michael Benton; his 11 grandchildren: Kaitlyn Harris, William Harris, Jackson Harris, Reese Harris, Ethan Benton, Haley Benton, Taylor Barclay, Gavin Benton, Andrew Benton, Cayce Benton, Travis Barclay; his sister, Cissy Benton Grantham (Glynn); and his nephews, Brian and David Waldrep and their families; and numerous cousins.
Visitation will be held at First Baptist Church, 27734 Hwy 16, Denham Springs, Saturday, October 9, from 9 a.m. until memorial service at 11 a.m. Please share your condolences at www.sealefuneral.com.
6 comments
Brenda Edwards
October 11, 2021 at 12:15 am
To the Benton family: We pray that God grants you peace in your time of sorrow.
With much love,
Barbara and D.C. Ballard
Brenda and Jimmy Edwards
Claire and Scott Mayer
October 9, 2021 at 4:08 pm
We are so sad to hear of Mr. Benton’s passing. Although we only knew him for a relatively short time, he always made us feel like lifelong friends. He was such a great person and family man and always made us feel at home. We will miss our conversations with him about family, friends, LSU football, and politics. He always had a kind word, a genuine interest in our lives, and a welcoming smile. Our prayers are with you in this difficult time, but take comfort in the fact that he is watching over you.
Jeanie Harrington
October 6, 2021 at 4:50 pm
Johnnie was my favorite male cousin, even though he was the only one. He touched my heart when he was just a little boy, and our closeness remained throughout his life. I was blessed to see him, talk to him and sing with him on Sunday. He knew I was there, smiling as best he could. AND he tried to sing the chorus of In The Garden with me, humming, on pitch, a few seconds. I’ll remember that the rest of my life.
Rest In Peace, sweet Johnnie! I’m sure there is glorious music in Heaven right now as all our Bentons welcome you there.
Terry Gomez
October 5, 2021 at 9:44 pm
John was a good friend of mine. We worked together at New York Life years ago but stayed friends thereafter. So sorry that he is gone. He was a good guy.
buck wylie
October 5, 2021 at 9:28 pm
Will and Family:
I am so sad to hear this news and appreciate Al for advising me.
I did not know your Dad but believe since I know you and your heart he was a fine man.
And a GREAT Dad……and as your role model showed you the path.
There are moments ahead when you will seek that word from him. It will be in your heart and mind.
Always.
And remeber the shortest sentice in the Bible: “Jesus wept”.
My heart goes out to you and your family.
Buckaroo
Sue Blouin Wild
October 5, 2021 at 5:32 pm
Johnnie was a family man. I was proud to call him my brother-in-law for 21 years. It is my hope that his family knows they are in the prayers of many who knew him. I am sorry for their loss.