Jim Lewis BENTON

I remember my son talking about you, always with great enthusiasm. I told him of your passing and he said you were one of the best. I just assumed my son had been in your classes, but he told me that although he was not in your class you always spoke with him and you knew who he was. The same is what I experienced with you every time our paths crossed, always a cheery smile and an acknowledgement. It was a pleasure to have a hug with Meredith at the Memorial held on the Baseball field at...

As his classmate for one year in Nottingham University, I felt so sad to know about all this. It's so hard to believe that a man as kind as Jim...I browsed all the pictures of us in the UK. It seems that I could still hear him say "really?" with those innocent eyes. will miss you much Jim.

For a man to have lived such a legacy for his short time on earth shows his life was meant to be, to spread the love of learning and a spark to each class that he served. Each student mattered and none were loved less. He'll always be remembered as as someone that was there to motivate, to show compassion and give each student the chance to say, "I Can." Our hopes as a parent is that more teachers follow his path and that students that launch their profession into teaching that they follow...

I was lucky enough to meet Jim my freshman year of high school. He could make me laugh like crazy! Jim had a huge impact on my life while we were in college and I have always been grateful that God put him in my life at the time he did. Jim never judged or criticized, he simply wondered how he could be a better person himself. He was one of a kind. His family welcomed me with open arms and showed me such love and they are in my prayers now.
Meredith, what a beautiful family you made. Jim...

Please Note: Services for Jim in Porterville will be held November 4, NOT October 28.

Meredith, I am so sorry for your great loss. You and Jim were together on my daughters first trip to D.C. I can always remember you two sharing your lives with them. Thank you for all you and your husband gave to our children. It is such a huge loss but please know how much love is sent your way from Oak Park.

Meredith, I am so saddened by your loss. I have a pit in my stomach whenever I think about you and Adalyn. You are an amazing and strong person and you are in my thoughts and prayers. May Jim rest in peace and may you find solace in that.