Robert Cullen Benton
Born in Macon, GA on February 17, 1920
Departed on March 12, 2008
Robert C. Benton, 88, of Saint Petersburg, Florida, passed away on March 12, 2008.
The son of Henry and Mary Box Benton, he was born on February 17, 1920, along with his twin brother Rodney, in Macon, GA. After graduating high school, he and Rodney attended Oklahoma University, until they went to serve as Medics in World War II. They were part of the 399th Infantry Regiment of the 100th Infantry Division. Robert was highly decorated.
Upon completion of their years of service, both brothers continued their education at Oklahoma University. Robert graduated with a degree in Marine Biology. He was employed by the Department of Fisheries for 20 years, publishing various articles in scientific publications throughout the world. Robert subsequently moved to Florida, to begin his retirement years.
Surviving are daughter and son-in-law, Bonnie & Kevin Saxman of Saint Petersburg, FL; a son, John Benton of Black Mountain, NC; a son, Ken Benton of Naples, FL; a niece and Nephew, Christa and Rodney Benton of Saint Petersburg, FL; and two grandchildren, Matt and Alex Saxman of Saint Petersburg, FL. He was predeceased by his beloved twin brother, Rodney Benton, who is also buried at the Bay Pines National Cemetery.
Funeral services will be held at 10:45 a.m. on Tuesday, March 18, 2008, at the Bay Pines National Cemetery, with full military honors. Arrangements entrusted to Veterans Funeral Care, 15381 Roosevelt Blvd., Clearwater, Florida 33760
In lieu of flowers, please send donations to the local chapter of the Veterans of Foreign Wars.
May God Bless you forever Bob. I’ll always have fond memories of your kind heart and good nature. You definitely had an impact on my life and I’ll forever be greatful for knowing you for over 30 years of my life. Until we meet again.
Mr. Benton Bob was a kind and gentle man. Twenty five years ago, while I was in high school, I remember how he liked to share current event topics with me and the other football players on Bick’s team. We just wanted to get drunk, but Bob would keep on going whether the topic was Ronald Reagan, the new AIDS epidemic or the length of the girls shorts playing volleyball at St. Pete Junior College.
I also know that he loved his entire family dearly. He will be missed.
Rory Shannon
Dear Benton Family,
I know how difficult it is to lose a parent. We have so much history together. I will never forget the times we had at Bob’s house in high school. He was always willing to hang with the guys. We all have such great memories from those days. He will be missed!
Nick DeRosa and Family