Bobby Benson

Bobby Gene Benson, age 78, passed away November 27, 2019 at the V.A. Hospital in Memphis.

He was born May 29, 1941 in Chester County, the second son to his beloved mother, Dora Ellon Benson. He went to school at Glendale and graduated Chester County High School. He entered the U.S. Navy in 1958, was stationed in San Diego, CA and served aboard the USS Passumsic (AO-107), a replenishment oiler. He served in Japan and the Philippines from 1958 until 1962.

He was also a member of the Enlisted Men’s Club on the base in San Diego.

After his military service, Bobby married Jean Scott and they made their home in Memphis and Bartlett. Two children, Phillip and Tina, rounded out the family.

Bobby was a family man and volunteered in youth groups, as a baseball coach, and a scout master. He wanted to be involved with his children and his community.

He went to work for the Illinois Central Railroad as an agent operator. He learned every job so that he would be able to help every where.

His son Phillip died in 2000 and his wife Jean died in 2006. Through his heartache, Bobby continued to embrace life. He loved people. He looked for opportunities to help others and always encouraged a positive perspective.

In recent years, Bobby became involved with the Rockabilly Rockers and was inducted into the International Rock-A-Billy Hall of Fame. He shared his passion for dance with the Rockabilly Rockers and with his companion, Shirley Burkeens. Bobby loved to travel and spent most of his time outdoors, relishing the beauty in every thing. From Florida beaches to the wilderness, camping, and traveling in his motor home, he experienced life.

Bobby Benson is survived by his daughter, Tina Marie Benson (Sean Murphree) of Bartlett; two grandchildren, Phillip and Cydni; his brother William “Bill” Benson (Marie) of Bartlett; his sister Ann Pettit (Charlie) of Florence, MS; nieces Suzie, Karen, and Talatha; nephew Rusty. great nephew Ronnie; his long time friend and companion, Shirley Burkeens, and a bushel of people who love him.

Funeral services will be 11am Saturday at Shackelford Funeral Directors on Crook Avenue with Koreen Edwards officiating. Burial will follow with military honors at Cabo Cemetery.

The family will receive friends at Crook Avenue 5:00pm until 7:00pm. Masonic Rites will be at 7:00pm Friday in the chapel.

Shackelford Funeral Directors of Henderson.
731-989-2421.