Bennie Waldon Bumpers, 84, passed away on Monday, July 27, 2026. Bennie was born in Jackson, Alabama, on September 10, 1941, to Nathan and May Dee Bumpers. His grandparents were Ben and Alice Courtney and Henry W. and Minnie Bumpers.
Bennie attended Jackson schools and graduated from Jackson High School in 1959. He then attended Howard College, now Samford University, graduating in 1963 with a degree in business. While there, he met Sonja Johnson, and they married on June 8, 1962.
Bennie enjoyed a long and distinguished relationship with Samford University. He was named Samford University Alumnus of the Year in 1995, served as president of the Alumni Association from 2003 to 2004, and received another alumni honor in 2008. He also greatly enjoyed his many years of service on the Brock School of Business Advisory Board. Samford brought Bennie tremendous joy, and he loved being part of its community.
Bennie worked for Vulcan Materials Company for 40 years, retiring as vice president of risk management. He loved his work and the many people with whom he worked. His career took him around the world, and wherever he went, he never met a stranger.
Bennie loved people and enjoyed teasing everyone around him-it was how you knew he liked you. He was generous and kind, a loyal friend, and the best husband and father anyone could hope for. His favorite saying was, "Remember where you came from."
Above all, Bennie was a believer in Christ and a devoted husband, father, and grandfather. His kindness, humor, and love for others will be deeply missed.
Bennie was preceded in death by his parents, Nathan and May Dee Bumpers, and his brother, Max Bumpers. He is survived by his beloved wife of 64 years, Sonja Johnson Bumpers; his sons, Doug Bumpers and his wife, Tracie, and Shawn Bumpers and his wife, Christy; and his grandsons, Nathan and Joshua as well as his cousin Linda Courtney Brown.
We will never forget you, Bennie. Thank you for loving us.
There will be a visitation at Stave Creek Baptist Church at 10am, and service at 11am, Thursday, August 6th.
