Loretta Jean Benton

Loretta Jean Benton, 88, of Fort Smith, Arkansas was called home by her Lord and Savior on March 3, 2023. Loretta was born May 10, 1934 in Fort Smith, Arkansas to Oscar Newman, Sr. and Jennie Wilson Newman. She was a member of The Pentecostal Church in Fort Smith since 1941. She enjoyed gardening, reading, completing sudoku puzzles but most of all, cooking and spending time with her family. She was also a talented vocalist and piano player.
Loretta was preceded in death by her husband of 70 years, Ennis Elton Benton, parents Oscar and Jennie Newman, sisters Savannah Rutledge, Mildred Brown, Opal Edwards and Rosemary Stroud as well as brother Oscar Newman, Jr. She is survived her son Elton R Benton, Sr. (Rebecca) of Fort Smith, one grandson Elton R Benton, Jr. (Sondra) and one great granddaughter Zoie Benton.
Loretta's funeral service will be held at 11:00 AM Wednesday, March 8, 2023 at The Pentecostal Church on Kelley Highway with Pastors Tim Sullivan and Ron Patrick officiating. Interment will be at U.S. National Cemetery in Fort Smith. Pallbearers will be T.C. Strawhacker, Jim Wagley, Jim Bruso, Paul Copher, Joe Strawser and Dewayne Shock. The family will receive friends at the funeral home from 5:00 PM until 7:00 PM Tuesday, March 7, 2023.