Phillip Benefield Sr.

BENEFIELD Sr., Phillip Phillip Benefield Sr., beloved and loving husband of 52 years, proud father to two sons and friend of nearly anyone he met passed away peacefully the morning of December 15th, at home in Decatur, GA. He was 73 years old. A memorial service celebrating his life is scheduled for 2 p.m. Friday Dec. 18th at Oak Grove United Methodist Church in Decatur, GA. With Dr. Glenn Ethridge officiating. Phil was born in LaGrange, GA to Dorsey and Lorene Benefield and graduated from LaGrange High School. He attended North Georgia College where he was an active member and leader of the military honor society Scabbard and Blade. Upon graduation he was commissioned an Armor officer in the United States Army. He and Beth were stationed at Fort Stewart, GA and he deployed shortly afterward for a year with the 18th Airborne Corps peacekeeping force as a tank platoon leader to Santa Domingo. After serving his obligation he left service and began a career in finance and banking eventually becoming a municipal bond trader which lasted until his retirement as the Director, Municipal Securities Division, Smith Barney. After retirement Phil endeavored to serve others through various philanthropic and service organizations. He served on a number of boards of director narrowing his service to the U.S. Coast Guard Auxiliary and the Troup County Dulcimer club. He attended a number of courses in support of the USCG including radio school and a culinary course. He played the guitar for the Troupers where he accompanied them as they played in churches and nursing homes. He was a keen fisherman and boater and enjoyed being on water of any kind. He was a lover of good music, particularly country and classic rock music. He also picked up leatherworking and enjoyed creating belts, key rings, guitar straps and holsters for friends and family. He was a member of Oak Grove United Methodist Church and the Hope Sunday School class which has been together for 35 years and spent considerable time studying and finding answers to questions about faith. Phil is survived by his wife of 52 years Beth Crouch Benefield of Decatur, GA, son Phillip, daughter in law Kim, granddaughters Mary, Rebecca and Katherine of LaGrange GA, son Thomas, daughter in law Anna, and granddaughters Ramona and Corrine also of Decatur, GA. Our family thanks the many doctors, PAs, nurses and caregivers who extended his life and made the last few months much better than they would have been without them. We could not have done it without you. In lieu of flowers donations may be made to Oak Grove United Methodist Church or to a charity of your choice.