Dr. Benny Charles Aker

BENNY C. AKER, PHD

Benny C Aker, age 86, of Springfield, MO passed away on December 2, 2025.

Benny was born on February 4, 1939, in a primitive dugout house in the high desert of Jarida Canyon west of Cuba, New Mexico. He was the youngest of seven children born to Tom and Mary Wanda Aker, having four brothers and two sisters. In his early years Benny helped with the family ranching business and had many adventures on the range.

While he was still in high school Benny's family moved to Albuquerque where he met the love of his life, Barbara Grace Powers. Benny and Barbara were married in 1960 and shared over 65 years of marriage.

A few years after their marriage Benny was called to the ministry, so they moved to Springfield, MO where he enrolled as a student at Central Bible College. Upon receiving his Bachelor's degree from CBC he was offered a teaching position at the College where he then taught for many years. During this time, he pursued his advanced education, earning first a Master's Degree from Concordia Seminary in St. Louis, MO and then a Doctoral Degree from St Louis University.

Benny left CBC during the 1980's to assume teaching positions in Fresno, CA. He then returned to Springfield in the early 1990's to accept a teaching position at the Assemblies of God Theological Seminary, a position he held until he retired as Professor Emeritus of New Testament Exegesis. In addition to his teaching duties, Benny authored or co-authored various books and articles for biblical journals and publications and contributed to the educational curriculum of numerous AG institutions.

Benny was preceded in death by his parents and all six of his siblings. He is survived by his loving wife Barbara, son Steven Aker, 20 nephews and nieces, numerous great nephews and nieces, and special friends and traveling companions Pat and Carolyn O'Bryant and their daughter Kara Turner.

Benny can be remembered as a truly gifted scholar, educator and mentor to many of his students but one who never lost his native love of New Mexico and the southwestern U.S. He was also a man who continually saw and sought God's grace both in his own life and the other people around him.

A celebration of Benny's life will be held at 10AM, January 8 th, 2026 at Greenlawn Funeral Home North in Springfield, MO with interment to follow in Greenlawn Memorial Gardens.