James moved to Texas as an infant. His fondest memories as a child were visiting his grandparents in California during the summer. He was a Cub Scout and graduated from Irving High School in 1961. He attended Arlington State College (currently University of Texas Arlington). He played the clarinet in the Rebel Band and was a member of Kapphi Kapphi Psi band fraternity. He worked 36 years at Vought Aircraft Co. loved the color blue and the theme song from "Titanic".
To avoid being drafted, James enlisted into the US Army. He served from 1965 - 1967 and received the National Defense Service Medal, Vietnam Service Medal with 1 Overseas Service Bar and 1 Bronze Star, Vietnam Campaign Medal and the Army Commendation Medal.
While at dinner one night a beautiful woman caught his eye. After watching her at an awkward dinner for several minutes he decided to rescue her by asking her to share a meal. They were married June 28, 1986 after dating for 6 years and just celebrated 31 years in love. He often said getting married was his proudest family moment.
James was a quiet, loving, generous man who enjoyed working in the yard and traveling. His favorite trips included visiting Colorado and Louisiana. He had a good sense of humor and made sure family always came first. When it came to his family he was very patient and tolerant. One of his favorite activities with his wife was pulling zingers on her, he would get so excited.
He is survived by his wife, Kathleen "Kathy" Benton; children: Terri Red and husband, Michael, Jerry Christison and wife, Ramona, James MacAvoy and wife, Dawn, Tammie Martin and husband, Joe; grandchildren: Justin Red, Joshua Red, Alexa Red, Jeffrey Fattig, Kaytlin Fattig, Kieran Christison, McKenna Christison, Heather MacAvoy, Sean MacAvoy, Melanie MacAvoy, Adeline MacAvoy, Emma MacAvoy, Steven Martin; great-grandchildren: Josilyn, Jazlynn, Zayyden, Raven, Kairi and Noah; brother, Dan Benton and wife Cynthia; nephews, Matt and Todd.
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