Wilton Harold Benson

Wilton Harold Benson, affectionately known as Willie to his friends and family, passed away peacefully on November 3, 2025, at the age of 98 in Alamance Co., North Carolina. Born on February 13, 1927, in Johnston Co., NC, Willie lived a full and vibrant life marked by dedication to his family, his country, and his community. Willie was the beloved husband of Shelby Hankins Benson, with whom he shared 60 joyous years of marriage. Together, they built a life filled with love, laughter, and adventure. He was a devoted father to his daughter, Joan Robinson and her husband Michael, and to his sons, Terry Benson and his wife Tina, and Tim Benson and his wife Machell. Willie's legacy continues through his nine grandchildren and fifteen great-grandchildren, who will forever cherish their memories of him. Preceding him in death were his parents, Willis Aldridge Benson and Isabelle Crawford Benson, his son Harold Aldridge Benson, and his granddaughter Tiffany Benson. Willie's life was a testament to resilience and the enduring bonds of family. Willie proudly served his country as a member of the US Navy during World War II. His dedication to service continued throughout his life, as he retired from Western Electric after 42 years of faithful service. Willie also shared his knowledge and skills as a teacher in the Machine Shop at Alamance Community College, where he helped shape the minds of future generations. An avid traveler, Willie and his wife Shelby explored the vast beauty of the United States, visiting 48 of the 50 states. Their shared passion for discovery and adventure brought them countless cherished memories. Willie's love for the outdoors was also evident in his many hikes along the Blueridge Parkway, where he traversed most of the trails more than once, each time with the same enthusiasm as the first. A man of the earth, Willie found joy in farming vegetables on his land. His harvests were not only a source of sustenance for his family but also a means of connection with his community. He delighted in sharing the fruits of his labor with family, friends, and neighbors, selling his produce at the end of his driveway so that passersby could enjoy the bounty of his garden. A funeral service will be held at 12:00 Noon on Friday November 7, 2025 at the McClure Funeral Home Chapel in Mebane with Pastor Darrell Moser officiating. Burial will follow in Oakwood Cemetery with Military rites. The family will receive friends from 11:00 AM until service time on Friday at the funeral home in Mebane.