With profound love and gratitude for a life well lived, we announce the passing of Sherman Lewis Benton, who entered eternal rest on June 3, 2026, at the age of 94.
Born February 27, 1932, in Dale County, Alabama, Sherman lived a life defined by faith, devotion to family, hard work, kindness, and quiet strength. Throughout his ninety-four years, he touched countless lives through his generosity, wisdom, and unwavering love for those around him.
Sherman was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Anne Jane Benton, with whom he shared 67 years of marriage. Their enduring love was the foundation of a family that continues to grow and flourish through the generations. Though he deeply missed her following her passing, he carried her memory in his heart every day and looked forward to the day they would be reunited.
He was a devoted father and is lovingly remembered by his two daughters, Melony Foster (James) and Cheryl Wood (Andy), who were blessed by his guidance, encouragement, and unconditional love. His greatest joy was his family, and he took immense pride in watching it grow over the years.
He leaves behind a legacy that spans generations, including cherished grandchildren, along with numerous great-grandchildren, nieces, nephews, extended family members, and dear friends whose lives were enriched by knowing him.
He is also survived by his beloved brothers-in-law: Bill Burgess (Shirley), Mickey McKnight (Debbie), and Jimmy McKnight (Nelda), and sisters-in-law, Liz Benton (Wayne), and Ann Benton (Norman), who shared many treasured memories and family celebrations with him throughout the years.
Sherman was preceded in death by his parents, Ralph Benton and Mabel (Stanford) Benton, and his three brothers: one who passed away shortly after birth, Charles Wayne Benton, and Norman (Shorty) Benton, and a sister, Miriam Speight (Sam). Though they departed before him, their memories remained close to his heart throughout his life.
Whether through his work, his service to others, his faith, or simply the example he set each day, Sherman embodied values that will continue to inspire those who loved him. He taught by example the importance of integrity, humility, perseverance, and compassion. His warm smile, gentle humor, steady presence, and heartfelt advice will be deeply missed but forever remembered.
To know Sherman was to know a man who valued family above all else. He celebrated life’s milestones with enthusiasm, found joy in simple pleasures, and never missed an opportunity to share a story, lend a helping hand, or offer words of encouragement. His life was a testament to the enduring power of love, faith, and commitment.
While our hearts grieve his loss, we find comfort in the many memories he leaves behind and in the knowledge that his legacy lives on through the family he cherished so dearly.
A visitation will be held on Saturday, June 6, 2026, at 10:00 AM at Ward Wilson Funeral Home, 2414 Hartford Hwy, Dothan, AL 36305, followed by a funeral service at 11:00 AM at Ward Wilson Funeral Home. Interment will follow at Newton Cemetery.
“Well done, good and faithful servant… Enter into the joy of your lord!” Matthew 25:21.
