Billy "Bill" Vaughn Benner

Billy Vaughn Benner, age 81, passed away October 22, 2026, in Forsyth County. He was a resident of Thomasville, North Carolina. Born January 30, 1945, in Chatham County, Bill was the son of the late Samuel William Benner and Vaughna Kate Hawks Benner.

After serving in the Army, Bill worked hard through various construction jobs. He was employed with Air Craftsmen in Lexington before retiring to care for his wife, Rebecca—an enduring reflection of his loyalty, resilience, and steady devotion to those he loved.

Bill found deep enjoyment in the things that spoke to both history and the outdoors. He had a love for antique weapons and was an avid hunter and fisher. He also enjoyed westerns—especially John Wayne—along with country music, traveling, dancing, and cooking. With characteristic honesty and determination, Bill authored a book titled *Rolling Block. Breech Loading, Shot Gun, Single Barrell*, detailing the history of the Remington rolling block shot gun. Yet, for all his interests and pursuits, what brought Bill the greatest joy was his daughter Rebecca and his granddaughters: Mariah, Brenna, Alina, and Tara.

In the many seasons of his life, Bill was known as a beloved presence—brave in the face of hardship, dependable in his commitments, and humorous in a way that brought comfort and lightness to those around him. His legacy is carried forward in the family he cherished and the memories he leaves behind.

Preceding Bill in death are his parents, Samuel and Kate; his brother, Tommy Benner; and his wife, Rebecca.

Survivors to cherish Bill’s memory are his daughter, Rebecca Dezern; two sons, Danny and Jeremy Benner; four granddaughters, Mariah (Chad) Mahala, Brenna (Giovani) Vasquez, Alina (Stefan) Brittain, and Tara (Chase) Parks; seven great-grandchildren, Alec, Rylan, and Eleni Mahala, Ezra, Julian and Andrea Vasquez, and Annalise Brittain; and three brothers, Larry, David, and Rick Benner.

A memorial gathering for Bill will be held Sunday, November 1, 2026, at 2 p.m. at Sechrest-Davis Funerals and Cremations of Thomasville, North Carolina.

The family is under the care of Sechrest-Davis Funerals and Cremations of Thomasville, North Carolina.