James Dale Benton, 82, of De Soto died Sept. 30, 2021, at his home. Mr. Benton served in the National Guard and was a U.S. Army reservist. He was an over-the-road truck driver and a member of Charter Baptist Church. Born April 2, 1939, in Mason City, Iowa, he was the son of the late James Luther and Hilda (Talman) Benton.
He is survived by his wife of 35 years: Carol (Douglas) Benton of De Soto; six children: Cyndie (Alan) Lucciola of Tampa, Fla., Pam Metko Holiday of Florida, Tracy Leonard of California, Jerry (Karen) Benton of St. Louis, Cheryl (Benton) Eads of Illinois and Jennifer (Benton) Kennedy of Illinois; two stepsons: Bryan Keeney and Ricky Keeney, both of De Soto; 21 grandchildren: Justin, Amanda, Michael, Katie, Joseph, Maranda, Monique, Gerrad, Jillian, Ryan, Mercedes, Alan, Christina, Michele, Daniel, Trisha, Nicole, Bradley, Bridgett, Paige and Tyler; numerous great-grandchildren; a brother-in-law: George (Carolyn) Douglas; two sisters-in-law: Luella Yagge and Shirley Branscum, both of De Soto; and many other family members and friends.
He was preceded in death by a son: Michael Benton; a stepson: David Keith Keeney; two siblings: Frank O’Gorman and Ernest Benton; a sister-in-law: Sheila (David) Beasley; and a brother-in-law: Eddie (Gerry) Douglas.
A memorial service is scheduled for 10 a.m. Saturday, Oct. 16, at Charter Baptist Church, 15267 State Hwy T, in Festus, officiated by Chris Goodwin.