Auburn Andress Benton, Jr., 86, is a sixth-generation Pensacolian and was fondly known to family and friends as “Junior.” He was born on July 16, 1937 to Elizabeth McKinnon and Auburn Benton, Sr. and went to heaven on February 14, 2024. In 1994 he married his soulmate, Cheryl Hinnant. Together they created a life overflowing with laughter, love, and joy that few couples ever experience.
He is survived by his loving wife, Cheryl Benton; son, Steve Benton; sisters, Janet Lincks and Carol (Bill) Filek Brabson; sister-in-laws, Kym (Tommy) Willnecker, Lisa (Scott) Farr, Kelly (Bobby) Nigh, and Cathy (Steve) Ciccone; brothers-in-law, Gavin (Mary) Price, Jimmie (Stephanie) Martin; and father-in-law, Fred Price.
Uncle Junior was precious and his kind heart will be missed by his nieces, Jennifer (Jeff) Honacker, Christie Howe, and Jaysa Ciccone; and nephews, Jack Filek, David (Cindy) Calloway, Adam (Misty) Lincks, Ray Lincks and Jacob (Julia) Benton, Trent Willnecker, Gavin (Amanda) Nigh, Philip Farr, David Farr, Nate (Rebecca) Price, and Wyatt Martin. He enjoyed a very special relationship with his great nephew, Walker Charles Nigh.
He is preceded in death by his parents; mother-in-law, Myrtle Price; brothers, Cary Benton and David Benton; niece, Deborah Hershberger; and lifelong friend, “Wild” Bill Terry.
While Junior had many dear friends, he cherished an eternal bond with Sandra and Robert George, and his Walking Group: Betty, Sharon, Tish, Flo, Bill, and Tom.
A joyous Life Celebration will be held on Saturday, March 9, at 1:30 p.m. at St. Luke United Methodist Church (1394 E Nine Mile Road) with visitation in the fellowship hall after the service.
In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations to be made to St. Luke’s Methodist Church and/or Covenant Hospice.
He will be deeply missed by his family and friends who loved him very much.
