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Philip Craig Benton, MD
1947 - 2022
Philip Craig Benton, MD
1947 - 2022
Obituary
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Philip Benton, MD Obituary
Dr. Philip Craig Benton, MD
March 11, 1947 - January 4, 2022
Our beloved husband, father, soon to be “Doc” grandpa, friend, and doctor to many in the community, passed away unexpectedly on January 4, 2022. Philip loved his family dearly, especially family gatherings, where he was recently in Grayton Beach enjoying Christmas.
He dedicated himself to serving others. Early in his childhood, he was recognized as one of the youngest Eagle Scouts in America, and throughout his life and career, left no stone unturned, to help not only his patients, but anyone that was in need.
Philip graduated from Florida State University with the original intention of becoming a Marine Biologist. His compassion for others led him to the University of Alabama, where he studied to become a doctor of medicine. He was awarded the student research award, before becoming an orthopaedic surgeon specializing in treating the spine, where he then became a partner and practiced at Southern Orthopaedics and Sports Medicine, P.A. in Pensacola.
He also dedicated himself to his country and served as an officer in the United States Navy. During his more than 35 years in medical practice, he received numerous awards, recognitions, and wrote many papers of distinction that have been published in various medical journals.
Philip had a deep love of music and he was an acoustic guitar flatpicker, he had a passion for bluegrass music which he shared with all who would listen, and he took great pleasure in spending time with his group of dear friends enjoying fine wine monthly.
He will be greatly missed by his loving wife and companion of 23 years, Susan; his step children, Caroline and Reed, and their respective spouses, Joiner and Hope.
Philip is preceded in death by his parents Philip Maxwell Benton and Virginia Clair Simpson, as well as his sister Margot Benton Summers Williston.
Dr. Philip Benton’s memorial service will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Saturday, January 8, 2022 at the First United Methodist Church on Six East Wright Street in Downtown Pensacola. Reception to follow. Masks are encouraged.
There will be an additional burial service at a later date at the Benton Historic Cemetery in Alabaster, Alabama.
In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to UMCOR at umcmission.org
20 Entries
Thankful Patient
May 8, 2022
Because of this man I walk. God directed his hands in a life saving surgery for me and I have given thanks for his skill and his caring ever since 2003. He was an incredible surgeon who cared. Thank God he was the trauma surgeon on call the day I was Life Flighted to Baptist. I, like so many others, loved him. His loss is felt by many.
John Hanley
April 8, 2022
My fraternity brother and great friend. I wish we could play another song together
John Heckel
March 25, 2022
What a great doctor. Always fixed me up perfectly. Going to miss him.
Mary Overhalser
March 3, 2022
Oh Doc..it hurts so bad. But NOT as bad as it does now living w/o you!! Truly u were needed in heaven more! Keep truckin’ up there. We will all be with you soon. Love U Doc!!!!!
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Patricia Pawless
February 19, 2022
I was a patient of Dr. Benton for more than ten years. He helped me so many times over the years with my pressing arthritis pain. I had just seen him again before he passed. We had a wonderful friendship too, & I used to bring a dozen fresh eggs from my chickens. My condolences to his family. He was a great man & Doctor & will be greatly missed.
Charles Mooney
February 1, 2022
I had the privilege of being mentored by Phil in my naval residency and he directly influenced my specialty choice. During my years of practice in Pensacola, we shared many patients. Phil was always accommodating and instructive. I have never known a more dedicated surgeon and colleague. I enjoyed drinking great wine with Phil and with a heavy heart will open one of my best and remember some of our good times. Hoping that his family, and all who knew and miss him, know grace in the coming days. Miss you, my friend.
Catherine Rider
January 25, 2022
I just heard of Dr. Benton's passing. I am quite saddened by his passing. He was a great doctor to me and others and a kind gentleman. God Bless his and his loved ones.
Colleen Bruner
January 18, 2022
Dr. Benton was not only a wonderful Dr. He was a kind man. He talked to me recently when my mom passed away suddenly trying to help with my grief. He will be missed tremendously. RIP Dr. Benton
F. Norman Vickers
January 17, 2022
Phil was a friend and medical colleague.
I would would on occasion have opportunity to ever him a patient and we also crossed paths in Escambia County Medical Society. He will be missed. I also mourn his loss.
Susan Quinn Williams
January 10, 2022
Dr. Phil and Allan were Great supporters of the Arts. They were the founders of the Board of “First City Dance Theatre” and Phil treated the dancers Pro bono when injured. As a friend he was my Dr. and performed surgery on my neck and still today people can’t see the scar. He was an Amazing surgeon, friend and he loved his community.
Cindy Meadows
January 8, 2022
I knew Phil and Susan when they lived in Old Seagrove where they renovated an older home into a beautiful beach house.
Even though they moved many years ago, I kept up with them through Susan’s Facebook page. I was deeply saddened to hear of Phil’s passing and pray God’s comfort at this sorrowful time.
Gail Rappa
January 8, 2022
Doc took great care of his patients. He listened ran through his experience and knowledge as a doctor and figured out a plan of treatment. Precise, happily and with integrity. Doc you will really be missed by a lot of people and houses you restored with a passion. I bet you are already planting organic plants in heaven. I know your staff and family will miss you dearly.
juie foret
January 7, 2022
Philip was a very professional and caring doctor. He always had time to see you even in his very hectic schedule. He was talented in so many endeavors. Rest in peace , Dr Phil. You have deserved it.
Juie Foret
Ronald Nash
January 7, 2022
Doc , you'll be missed, both for your manner and the relief you gave me. Always like a Dr with a good sense of humor! Sorry i can't say farewell in person, dang backs out again. God be with your family and share his Peace and Comfort with your family.
Karen Jones
January 7, 2022
I worked with Phillip over at Baptist...I worked at Pensacola Urology and he was upstairs...But he was always there when I needed him to give me an injection in my knee or just to talk about blue grass music. I considered Phillip a good friend of mine....He will be missed among the medical community
Julia Schultz
January 6, 2022
Dr. B. I’m sure going to miss you. We had an 18 year working relationship and I have to say you taught me to be a very detailed almost ocd in my work, a lot like you. I will miss the flat picking we were privileged to enjoy on rare occasion when the staff would make you stop for a minute and play for us all. Hope you were greeted with the biggest piece of coconut cake in heaven. You definitely deserve it. You will live on in our hearts forever.!! Until we meet again my friend! Love you!
Sandy
January 6, 2022
Dr Benton will be missed. I am a relatively new patient. My condolences to the family, friends, and staff of this great Dr.
Patrick Lovern
January 6, 2022
I was proud to call Doc my friend. I will miss him deeply.
Janie Quigley
January 6, 2022
Phil was an amazing friend and Doctor to me for eighteen years. I don’t know how to begin to replace him. I sincerely share your sorrow
Daniel Eddins
January 6, 2022
Phil was instrumental in my career and a trusting friend. He will be sadly missed by all who shared in his kindness and gifts of healing. He will be received in glory with many crowns. Prayers for the loss of a beloved man.
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2276 Airport Blvd., Pensacola, FL 32504
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