Howard Henry Benton

Howard was born in Fort Bragg, NC, on September 12, 1934, to the late Howard Payne and Mary Elizabeth Benton. He was preceded in death by the love of his life, Thomasine (Tommi) Carter Benton. Howard is survived by his loving daughters Lynn Benton Harvey of Raleigh, NC, and Beverly Lynn Benton of Apex, NC; his sisters, Mary Elizabeth Benton (Frank) of Orange Park, FL, and Patricia Proctor of Morehead City, NC, as well as numerous nieces and nephews, all of whom loved “Uncle Howard.” His devoted caregiver, Shana Jeffries, who was a trusted friend and companion, became an extended member of the family. Howard leaves a lifetime of cherished memories with his family and friends.

While a disabling condition robbed him of his ability to walk later in life, he never allowed his condition to slow him down. He was strong and resilient and had a positive outlook on life. He was determined that confinement to a motorized scooter would not prevent him from living his best life. When weather permitted, he was out every day in the neighborhood visiting with long-time neighbors and welcoming newcomers. He was affectionately called the “Mayor” of Fieldstream Farms; he was known by many as a true Southern gentleman with a kind and gentle spirit who never met a stranger.

“Daddy” as he was known to his daughters was an awesome “Girl Dad.” He was fun-loving and playful, with a great sense of humor. He understood the hurdles of growing up and always shared words of wisdom and provided unconditional love and support. No sacrifice was too great to provide for his girls. Even in his later years they enjoyed special times together including Saturday morning brunch and Saturday afternoon movies.

Howard was a man of faith, character, and courage. He was a 60-year member of Creedmoor Road Baptist Church, where he was a former Deacon. He served many years as Chairman of the Building and Grounds Committee where he worked to expand and renovate the church properties. Young at heart, Howard enjoyed chaperoning the CRBC Youth on various mission trips and outings. He was always their trusted companion. He was active in the Men’s Bible Study Fellowship for nearly two decades.

He had an exemplary work ethic. For 55 years, “Henry” worked alongside Charles Allen (“Bo”) Newcomb to build Newcomb and Company Comfort Contractors. He served in various roles within the company during his many years and appreciated the hard work and commitment of his colleagues. He was respected, admired, and appreciated by all who knew and worked with him.

Howard was committed to service in his community. He was a volunteer Firefighter at a time when the community in which he lived was outside the city limits. He was a sustaining member of the Six Forks Fire Station, which would eventually become an EMS substation within the North Raleigh zone. Like other men in the community, Howard was committed to service to others and helped with many community service initiatives.

Howard and Tommi enjoyed traveling abroad and often did so with the Newcomb Team. They also loved road trips to experience the USA with their lifelong friends, Lois and David Barham. The Benton and Barham families would spend family vacations together at Ocean Isle beach for decades. Eventually, they became a blended family whose friendships would extend through four generations.

A celebration of Howard’s life was held Wednesday, February 28, 2024, at the Mitchell Funeral Home Chapel on 7209 Glenwood Avenue, Raleigh.

In lieu of flowers, memorial gifts may be made to Gentiva Hospice or to a charity of your choice.

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