Larry Benson

Larry W. Benson, 81, of rural Lawrenceville, Illinois, passed away on Tuesday, July 19, 2016 in Vincennes, Indiana. He was born May 18, 1935 in Russellville, Illinois. He was the son of Maurice C. and Juanita (Pinkstaff) Benson, and he was raised by his father and step-mother, Rosemary Warner. Larry married Shirley (Cooper) Benson on September 5, 1954. They raised six children and made a life together for nearly 62 years. Larry worked as a carpenter until 1965, when he took over the family farm. He enjoyed being on a tractor and in a combine. Larry took great pride in being a farmer. He was at his happiest when he was working in his fields. When his health would allow it, Larry attended Rising Sun Christian Church. He will be missed by his family, especially by his sons and grandsons. The heritage that Larry left his family of his farming knowledge and his passion for working in the fields will follow thru for many generations. Larry is survived by his wife, Shirley Benson; his children, Sheila (Jay) Foreman, Raeshelle (Lawrence) Painter, Larry Benson II, Doug (Julie) Benson, Tom (Chrissy) Benson; eight grandchildren; six great-grandchildren; and his step-sister, Judy. Larry was preceded in death by his parents; daughter, Vickie Fuller; brothers, Leonard, Max, and Harold Lee Benson; sisters, Shirley Pinkstaff and Mary Jane Houck; and a great-grandson, Anthony Chisolm. A time of gathering and fellowship with friends and family will be Saturday, July 23, 2016 from 10am until 12pm at the Emmons-Macey & Steffey Funeral Home in Lawrenceville, Illinois. Following the gathering, it was Larry's wishes to be cremated with a private burial at a later date. Memorial donations in Larry's memory may be made to the Russell-Allison-Ambraw Levee District.