Barbara Alice Benefield

Barbara Alice Benefield passed away peacefully, surrounded by her family on March 12, 2026, at her home in Southport, Florida, just days before her 85th birthday. She was born on March 16, 1941, in Phenix City, Alabama, to the late Thomas Putnam and Alice Shavers Putnam.

Barbara was united in marriage to the love of her life, W.D. Benefield, in 1957 at Springfield Community Church, where they were married by Bro. Hunt. Together they shared an incredible 69 years of marriage, building a life centered around family and devotion to one another.

A dedicated homemaker, Barbara devoted her life to raising her four boys and caring for her family. In her younger years, she enjoyed caring for and riding horses, a pastime that brought her great joy. She also had a love for working puzzles, researching genealogy, and carefully building her family tree. More recently, she enjoyed playing cards and spending time with those she loved. Barbara especially loved family fishing trips, where she proudly took charge of keeping everyone "organized." Known for her strong personality and candid nature, she was never afraid to say exactly what was on her mind, no matter who you were. Her strength, humor, and leadership made her the true matriarch of her family.

She was preceded in death by her parents; her son, James Benefield; grandson, Jerry Benefield, Jr.; and her brothers, Tommy Putnam, Herschel Smith, and Jackie Smith.

Barbara is survived by her loving husband of 69 years, W.D. Benefield; her sons, Robert Benefield (Jody), Jerry Benefield, and Johnny Benefield (Viki); her sister, Marion Waltman (Mickey); ten grandchildren; and thirty-seven great-grandchildren, all of whom will continue to carry her love and legacy forward.

Barbara will be deeply missed by all who knew and loved her. Her strength, devotion to family, and unmistakable spirit will forever remain in the hearts of those she leaves behind.

A graveside service will be held on Tuesday, March 17, 2026, at 10:00AM at Rock Hill Cemetery in Washington County, Florida with Chaplain Michael Bryan officiating. The family will receive friends Monday evening, March 16th from 5:00PM-7:00PM at Kent-Forest Lawn Funeral Home.