Jerry Wayne Benham

Jerry Benham, born February 16, 1956, passed from this life on January 28, 2026, surrounded by the

love of his family.

Jerry was the son of the late Charles Mackie Joe "Joe" Benham and Shirley Coweta Ford Benham.

He was also preceded in death by his daughter, Jerri Leanne Martinez, and his brothers Tony,

Donald, Kenneth, and Bobby Benham.

Jerry dedicated many years of his life to hard work and service. He was employed at Simplot Grower

Solutions in Blytheville and was a member of Refuge Community Church in Paragould. For over 20

years, he shared his voice and energy as an auctioneer at the Manila Auction Company, where he

was well known for his friendly spirit and love of conversation.

He is survived by his loving wife, Janice Benham, of the home; his son, Jerry Benham II of Leachville,

Arkansas; and his daughter, Christie Zolman and her husband, Mitchell, of Paragould, Arkansas. He

also leaves behind his sisters Pat Clayton, Rosie Smith, Dorothy "Dot" Penix, Betty Webb, and Lisa

McFall; and his brothers Glen Benham, Freddy Benham, and Charles "Chucky" Benham. His

grandchildren include Calob Benham and wife Abby of Jonesboro, Arkansas; Halayna "Laney"

Malone and husband Dillon of Keiser, Arkansas; Hannah Zolman of Paragould, Arkansas; as well as

Megan, Michael, and Jeremy. His legacy continues through his five great-grandchildren, including

Layken Malone and Ivie Malone, as well as a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends who will

cherish his memory.

Jerry was known for his love of visiting and sharing stories with everyone he met. His family invites all

who knew him to join in celebrating his life and sharing memories together.

Memorial services will be held on February 10 at Refuge Community Church, located at 717 N. Pruett

Street in Paragould. Visitation will be from 1:00 to 2:00 p.m., followed by the service at 2:00 p.m., with

Pastor Sammy Leisure officiating. A fellowship will follow the service, and those wishing to bring food

are welcome to do so. Flowers and plants may be sent to Refuge Community Church.

Jerry's warmth, humor, and kindness will be deeply missed, but his memory will live on in the hearts

of all who knew and loved him