J.P. Benton

Mr. James Perry Benton, Sr., affectionately known as “J.P”, 91, of Smoaks, passed away Tuesday morning, February 18, 2020, at his home, surrounded by his loving family.

Born July 5, 1928 in Perry, Florida, he was a son of the late Bennie Benton and Jennie L. Gunter Benton.  He retired as Chief Mechanic for the Maintenance Department for Polk County, Florida.  In 1990, he and his wife made the Lowcountry of South Carolina their home.  He was a member of Hunters Chapel Baptist Church, but for many years was a member of Green Pond Baptist Church. He was a devout Christian, and was an avid outdoorsman who loved hunting and fishing.

Surviving are: his wife of 70 years, Ann Hatcher Benton of Smoaks; son, James Perry Benton, Jr. and his wife Janene of Lodge; daughter, Nancy Ann Benton-Crockett and her husband David of Smoaks; sisters, Betty Carathers of Spring Hill, Florida and Geneva Clark of Lakeland, Florida; 5 grandchildren; and 13 great grandchildren.

Funeral services will be held at 2 o’clock, Friday afternoon, February 21, 2020 at Hunters Chapel Baptist Church, 9375 Hunters Chapel Road, Bamberg.  The Reverend Alvin Jeffcoat and The Reverend James W. Williams, Jr. officiating.  Interment will follow in the church cemetery.

The family will receive friends Friday from 1 o’clock until the hour of service at the church.

ARRANGEMENTS BY: THE BRICE W. HERNDON AND SONS FUNERAL HOMES AND CREMATORY, WALTERBORO CHAPEL, 1193 Bells Highway, Walterboro, 843.538.5408.  Visit the registry online at: www.briceherndonfuneralhome.com.