David "Hammer" Benton

David "Hammer" Benton

September 27, 1963 - May 12, 2025

David "Hammer" Benton passed away unexpectedly on May 12, 2025, in San Antonio, Texas, doing what he loved-trucking. His sudden passing has left his family deeply saddened and in shock.

Born on September 27, 1963, in Houston, TX, to Patricia and Charles Edgar Benton, David lived a life full of adventure, love, and resilience.

He is survived by his devoted wife of 41 years, Robin, and children: David (Teggan) Benton II of Manti, UT; Justin Benton Eckenswiller of Canada; Brandon T. Benton of Gunnison, UT; and Dalton J. (Krysta) Benton of Ephraim, UT. He is lovingly remembered by his mother, Patricia Anne Post of Arizona, and his grandchildren: Isabella, Maylee, Quinncy, and Beckham, who brought him immense joy.

David is also survived by his siblings and their families: sister Darlene (Steve) Darby of Tennessee; brother Michael J. Benton of Arizona; Frankie Lopez of Texas; and sister Debra (Marvin) Hallman of Texas.

His memory lives on through his nieces and nephews: David Hatcher (Colorado); Tiffany (Richard) Higgins (Arizona); Megan (Austin) Muhlenbruch (Wyoming); Tiffany (PJ) Gallegos (Texas); and Charles (Courtney) Benton (Germany); as well as numerous cousins and cherished friends.

David was preceded in death by his father, Charles Edgar Benton; brothers Charles Edward Benton, Charles Ray Walthall, and Bill Benton; sister Zoann Sharp; grandparents Charles T. Benton and Rena Brown; uncle and aunt Charles and Irene Walthall; aunt Lorraine Pettit; and many beloved friends and relatives.

David grew up in Arizona and famously ran away with the carnival at the age of fourteen. It was during these early years that he developed a love for life, an entrepreneurial spirit, and taught himself to drive a truck. In 1989, he left the carnival behind to embrace the role of father. To support his growing family, he started multiple businesses, eventually finding his true calling in trucking.

Trucking allowed David to fulfill his love for exploration and connection. He earned his GED before his 16th birthday and never stopped learning. He had a deep interest in history and a profound appreciation for the Bible-especially the book of Revelation, his favorite.

David was a man of great heart-charitable, generous, and always willing to lend an ear. His ability to love and respect others made him truly unique. While he will be dearly missed on Earth, we take comfort in knowing that God will enjoy his company.

A service will be held at our shop, located at 303 W 600 S, Manti, UT, on the afternoon of May 24th. Casual attire is welcome. The family kindly requests no flower arrangements. The exact time of the service will be announced soon.