Paul D. “Benny” Benton 79, of Whitman, formerly of Marshfield, passed away peacefully, surrounded by his loving family on Sunday October 7. Paul was the husband of the late Spring Benton, with whom he shared sixteen years of marriage.
Born in Martha’s Vineyard on the island of Chappaquiddick he was the son of the late Richard C. Benton, Sr. and Pauline C. (Drake) Benton. Paul had lived on the Vineyard until his early teens, when his family moved to Bridgewater.
While still in high school, Paul enlisted in the US Navy, serving from 1956-1960. After being honorably discharged from the Navy, Paul returned to Bridgewater and graduated from Bridgewater High School.
Paul had worked for Boston Whaler before accepting a position as a Reserve Police Officer with the East Bridgewater Police Department. He later transferred to and retired from, the Brockton Police Department, where he served with pride and distinction from 1972-1997. During those years Paul had also worked earning his Associate’s Degree from Massasoit College.
Paul was a member of the Hanson AA and the Hanson Legion, where he had served as Chaplin and was a member of their Honor Guard. He was also a member of the East Bridgewater YMCA, where he became an avid swimmer.
In his retirement Paul enjoyed traveling with his wife Spring, and spending time with his family, as well as riding his motorcycle, and playing cribbage, forty-five or poker at the EB Commercial Club, the Bridgewater Polish Club or the Hanson AA.
He will be remembered as a man of great character, integrity and devotion, who as a single parent, raised his three children with love, care and understanding.
He is survived by his loving children, Scott D. Benton and his wife Kathie of Whitman, Michael M. Benton of Natick and Tamara P. Benton of Whitman, his brothers Richard C. Benton, Jr and his wife Nancy of Bridgewater and Joseph L. Benton and his wife Carol of Middleboro. Paul was the proud grandfather of Ryan, Meghan, Jillian, Kenny and Isabella Benton. He is also survived by many nieces, nephews and cousins.
Family and friends are invited to attend his Memorial Service on Saturday October 13 at 1:00 PM in the Blanchard Funeral Chapel, Plymouth Street (Rte. 58 @ the rotary) Whitman. Visiting hours will be held prior to the service from 11:00 AM –1:00 PM
Donations in his name may be made to the Old Colony Hospice, 32 Manley Street, West Bridgewater, MA 02379.