Bennett L. Wright

Bennett L. “Benny” Wright, 91, of Independence, Kansas, passed away peacefully on Monday, January 19, 2025, at Eagle Estates in Independence. Cremation has taken place under the direction of Webb & Rodrick Chapel and Crematory. A celebration of life service will be held at 11:00 a.m., Saturday, January 31, 2026 at the Independence Country Club.

Benny was born on January 7, 1935, in Iola, Kansas. He attended school in Gas and graduated from Iola High School. Following high school, he continued his education at Allen County Community College before moving to Manhattan, Kansas, where he completed his studies. In 1955, Benny married the love of his life, Lynn Ladd. The couple made their home in Manhattan, beginning a marriage that would span an incredible 70 years.

Benny was later drafted into the United States Army and proudly served his country until receiving an honorable discharge. After returning to civilian life, he finished his education and earned a degree in geology. His career took him to Dewey, Oklahoma, where he worked as a geologist for Cities Service until 1973. He later transitioned into the insurance industry, where his dedication and leadership led him to become a regional manager before retiring in 1995.

Retirement suited Benny well. He remained active by selling real estate, spending countless hours on the golf course, and enjoying time at the country club with family and friends. He took great pride in working in his yard, was an accomplished airplane pilot, and was a member of the Independence Flying Club. Benny also enjoyed watching sports and staying connected with those he loved most.

Benny was preceded in death by his three brothers, Earl, John, and Robert Wright, and his sister, Geraldine Wemmer.

Those left to cherish his memory include his wife of 70 years, Lynida Lynn Wright, of the home; two sons, Kirk (Debbie) Wright of Independence, Kansas, and Kyle (Kim) Wright of Kansas City, Kansas; and his daughter, Karla Boyle of Independence, Kansas. He is also survived by six grandchildren: Andrew (Ashley) Wright of Walker, Louisiana; Ashley (Kelly) Hewitt of Tulsa, Oklahoma; Jaymee (Mike) Lavieri of Overland Park, Kansas; Austin (Jessica) Leake of Gravette, Arkansas; Madison Wright of Kansas City, Kansas; and Logan Wright of Wichita, Kansas; as well as five great-grandchildren, Clark Hewitt, Julie Hewitt, Bennett Lavieri, Max Wright, and Geneive Leake.

Benny will be remembered for his devotion to his family, his strong work ethic, and the joy he found in life’s simple pleasures. His legacy of love, dedication, and friendship will live on in the hearts of all who knew him.

To leave a special message for the family, please visit www.webbrodrickchapel.com. Arrangements have been entrusted to the care of Webb & Rodrick Chapel and Crematory.