Willard Hoover Benton

Mr. Willard Hoover Benton, 84, of Valdese, died Tuesday January 6, 2015 at Burke Hospice and Palliative Care Center, Valdese, after a period of declining health. Mr. Benton was born April 23, 1930 in Burke County, a son of the late Robert and Lola Mae Lane Benton. Willard was a member of Valdese First Baptist Church, a US Army Veteran and retired from City Ready Mix and Metromont, Inc. In addition to his parents he was preceded in death by a brother, Jim Norman and a sister Bessie Norman Smith. Surviving are his wife of 64 years, Rebecca Whisenant Benton of the home, a daughter, Roxanna Ellis and husband Blair of Morganton and a grandson, Morgan Ellis. Also surviving are a number of nieces and nephews. Funeral Services for Willard Benton will be held at 3:00 P.M. Friday January 9, 2015 in the Chapel of Heritage Funeral Service with Rev. Dr. Barry Keys officiating. A private graveside service will be held at a later date. The family will receive friends from 1:30 until 2:45 p.m. Friday at Heritage Funeral Service,Valdese. Memorials may be made to Burke Hospice and Palliative Care Center, 1721 Enon Rd., Valdese, NC 28690 or First Baptist Church, 500 Faet St., Valdese, NC 28690.