Kenneth Hennessee Benson

Kenneth Hennessee Benson, D.D.S., born June 8, 1921, died peacefully December 1, 2014. A native of Walnut Ridge, Arkansas, he was preceded in death by his wife of almost 60 years, Kathryn; his parents, Clinton and Ressie Benson; and his younger brother Russell. He is survived by his beloved daughter Suzanne and her husband Gary, and numerous cousins and relatives. A lifelong Methodist, patriot, loving son, brother, husband and father--he was truly a member of the Greatest Generation. Kenneth was a child of the Great Depression, and grew up working in the cotton fields of the family farm. He went to Arkansas State College and earned a B.S. degree in Agriculture. When World War II broke out, Kenneth enlisted in the Army and was assigned to Camp Bowie, Texas, 7th HQ, and HQ Detachment, Special Troops, 4th Army, where he helped prepare troops to go to Europe. After the war, he became a pharmaceutical rep or “detail man” and traveled throughout Oklahoma and Texas. In Dallas, Texas he met the love of his life, Kathryn at Grace Methodist Church. Like so many other WWII veterans, Ken went back to school on the GI Bill, and received a D.D.S. from Baylor College of Dentistry. He practiced dentistry in Dallas, Texas for 57 years, and had many loyal clients. Throughout his life he lived out his Christian faith by his actions and desire to help others. His quiet and steady nature was a fixture of strength and comfort for those who knew him as a friend, a patient or a family member. Ken and Kay were longtime members of the Two by Two Class at Highland Park UMC. The family wishes to thank all of his doctors, nurses and caregivers at Baylor Hospital and C.C. Young for their care and kindnesses. A memorial service celebrating his life will be held Friday, December 5, 2014 at 10 a.m. in Cox Chapel at Highland Park UMC, 3300 Mockingbird Lane, Dallas. In lieu of flowers, please consider making a memorial contribution to: HPUMC, Music Ministry, 3300 Mockingbird Lane, Dallas, TX 75205; or The Agape Clinic, 4105 Junius Street, Dallas, TX 75246, or a charity of your choice. "Keep Smiling."