Dr. Donald Ray Benton

Receiving this email memory of Dr. Benton and reading, again, his long life history reminds me of how short a long life really is. This message reminds me to stay in prayer, keep up my faith, "see" today and be thankful.

I moved to Dallas in 1980 fresh out of the Navy and stared attending LL Church. Dr. Benton would provide copies of his sermons that I still carry with me to this day, July 14, 2024. I thought of Dr. Benton during this mornings service at the church I attend, Shoreline Church Monterey CA. I recall Dr. Benton speaking and his song each Christmas, "Oh Holy Night" which, thanks to Dr. Benton is my favorite of the many Christmas songs. Thank you Dr. Benton for still being a part of and a...

Don Benton flew to Arkansas to hear me preach and to offer me an opportunity to return to Lovers Lane where I had worshipped while in seminary. At the time, I felt like I could not leave Arkansas. But I always remembered his interest and his approach as one of the highlights of my ministry. I now live in Tennessee and recently met a family in my neighborhood who had attended LLUMC while they were in Dallas. We were able to share out mutual respect for Don and appreciation for the...

Dr. Benton meant so much to so many. When my Wife Lisa died in April 2004, Don was immediately by my side in our home. He was my Sheppard throughout the next week and provided support by conducting Lisa's funeral.
Three years later, Laura and I were married by Don.
Don made it a practice of always being available to the many people who depended upon him.
Laura and I will miss him greatly.
Our thoughts and prayers are with Don's family.

Mike & Laura...

To Debbie,
From Louise Crawford. My sweet one. So, so hard to
have to give up your father. Don was once the father of
my girl scout, you, then my neighbor, then the wonderful
husband of my sweet friend , Rosie, then my pastor
at Spring Valley Methodist Church. Not many men that I
have had the good fortune of knowing can measure up
tp Don. Thanks dear Lord for leaving him on this earth
all those 88 years.
Please know Debbie, that his memories and...

Dr. Benton was the reason I became a member of LLUMC. I had been raised Missouri Synod Lutheran When I moved to Dallas, I was looking for a church home. After the first sermon I heard Don preach, I knew that I had found my church.

I was married there by Steve Bailey under Dr. Benton. I had 2 sons baptized at LLUMC (one by Bill Bryant and the other by Stan Copeland). Both sons were confirmed at Lovers Lane by Stan Copeland. I am still an active member. I love how they have...

This giant among men and his ministry will not be forgotten.
Dr Benton confirmed me in the Christian Faith, was my pastor at both Spring Valley UMC and Lovers Lane UMC, married me and buried my parents.
I will miss his booming voice, deep faith and hugs, but rejoice he is now home.

My heart is beyond grateful for this life.

Cindy Potter Rubsamen

Don Benton was truly the "Voice of God" when he was speaking or preaching. He was a dynamic man who could deliver a sermon everyone could relate to in their own lives.
May God give his family peace and understanding during this difficult time.
Dianne & Bob Crowder