Wayne H. Benson

Wayne Hexter Benson, 55, of Lacon Illinois, went peacefully home to be with his Lord and Savior on November 12, 2025, at his home, surrounded by his loved ones.
Wayne was born to Wayne and Rosana (Reed) Benson on April 4, 1970, in Peoria, IL. He married the love of his life, Dawn Craig, on July 22, 1995. They renewed their vows on July 25, 2020, and on July 22, 2025. Together they raised three children: Alexis, Hunter, and Lauren.
Surviving are Wayne's children Alexis (Andy) Reid, Hunter Benson, Lauren Benson; parents Wayne and Rosana Benson; brother Brett Benson; sister Janet Benson; and nine nieces & nephews. He is preceded in death by grandparents Bill and Doris Benson & Janet Hexter-Reed, his unborn child, and unborn grandchild.
Wayne was a beloved husband, father, son, friend, and basketball coach. He loved mentoring his team and acting as a life coach. He was also an athlete, especially passionate about basketball, an avid deer, duck, and goose hunter, as well as a big game hunter in Africa. Above all else, Wayne loved serving the Lord, his wife, and his family.
Wayne spent most of his life living within a short distance of Lacon, despite his love for traveling around the world. He graduated from Mid County High School in 1988 and attended college at Culver-Stockton in Missouri and Parkland in Illinois. Wayne worked in the post industrial plastic recycling industry and ended his career as the Senior Manager of the Sales and Marketing Division for Mervis Plastics. Wayne spent 23 years with Mervis and a total of over 30 years in the industry.
In his final days, Wayne boldly shared the Gospel with all who would listen-friends, family, and his players-leading many to Christ. He encouraged those who visited him to focus on the following: Honor the Lord and seek fellowship with other believers, love everyone, and honor your parents.
Visitation will be held Sunday, November 16, at Lenz Memorial Home in Lacon from 2 to 4 PM. A funeral service for Wayne will be held on Monday, November 17, at Calvary Bible Church north of Lacon at 10 AM with Pastor Joe Bella officiating. Burial will be in the Lacon Cemetery and memorials may be made to Saint Jude or the Midland High School Boys Basketball program. Online condolences can be left at lenzmemorialhome.com. To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of Wayne, please visit our floral store.