Ralph was born September 11, 1925 in Bradly Junction, Florida, to John and Maggie Mae Benson. Ralph grew up in hard times and only completed six years of education. Despite the lack of further education, he became an awesome husband, father and grandfather.
Ralph was eager to work and help support his family. In his early teenage years, he worked with the National Youth Administration (NYA) and then on to the Civilian Conservation Corps (CCC). Some of the projects Ralph and his brothers worked on are still enjoyed by outdoor enthusiasts today. Many state parks were built by the CCC. Ralph joined the U.S. Navy during World War II before returning to Tampa, Florida. There he met the love of his life Nadine E. Wetherington Benson. They were married on June 30, 1946, for 55 years. Ralph continued faithfully providing for his family by working for Seaboard Airline Railway. It then became Seaboard Coast Line Railroad and was known as CSX Railroad when he retired. Ralph worked in the railroad industry for 42 years.
Ralph loved the Lord and praised Him throughout his life. Ralph was an ordained deacon and served wherever he attended. He loved the old-time hymns and sang them often. He liked singing bass standing around the old piano after church on Sunday nights. Ralph’s favorite bible verse was John 3:16.
Ralph was preceded in death by his parents, his beloved wife, a daughter, grandson, granddaughter, two brothers and his sister. He is survived by his daughter, Brenda Fox and husband Robert; son, Bill Benson and wife Rosalie; sister-in-law, Martha Benson; eight grandchildren; 16 great-grandchildren; three great-great-grandchildren; many nieces, nephews and friends. Ralph and Nadine created a great legacy of family that included three children, 10 grandchildren, 16 great-grandchildren and three great-great-grandchildren.
The family would like to thank all the Caregivers, Nurses and Staff at Hawthorne Health and Rehab of Brandon for their love and tender care over the past 3 years. They all have become extended family.
In addition, the family would like to thank the Home Bound Ministry Team from Southside Baptist Church Brandon, for their faithful visitation. Ralph called them his “Tuesday Ladies”. They would always put a smile on his face when they visited him.
The family request in lieu of flowers a donation be made to:
Southside Baptist Church of Brandon, 415 W. Lumsden Rd. Brandon, Fl 33511
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