Rev. Willie Lee Benson Sr.'s Obituary
In loving memory of Rev. Willie Lee Benson Sr., who was called home to be with the Lord on the 22nd of August 2024, at the age of 71. Born on January 15, 1953, in Tuscaloosa, Alabama, he was a devout believer who committed his life to Christ at an early age, a commitment that illuminated his path through the years.
Rev. Benson was an esteemed graduate of Druid City High School. He served his country with valor and dedication in the Army for 22 years, earning the respect and admiration of his peers. After retiring from military service, his enduring commitment to service led him to the Vernon Parish Sheriff's Office, New Llano Police Department, and Bayne-Jones Army Community Hospital. The community of Kinder, Louisiana, was blessed with his spiritual guidance as he pastored at Hannah Chapel A.M.E. for 14 years.
His journey on earth concluded in Lafayette, Louisiana, surrounded by the love and prayers of his family and friends. Rev. Benson was preceded in the journey to eternal rest by his parents and several siblings, including Willie Ed Benson, Charlie Bell Benson, Rev. Eddie Joe Benson, Robert James Benson, William Hal Benson Sr., Carl David Benson, Sheila Benson, and Clara Bell Benson.
He is survived and fondly remembered by his devoted wife, Myong Ae Benson; his children, Liflower Benson, Rev. Velvet Benson-Early, Willie Lee Benson Jr., and Solomon Muhammad Benson; his siblings, Roy, Field, Jessie, Charlie Gennetter Minor (Lucion) and Mary Benson; seven grandchildren; one great-grandchild; and his cherished nephews, Randall and Raynard Jones, whom he raised.
The Benson family invites friends and loved ones to pay their respects and celebrate Rev. Benson's life on the 31st of August 2024, at Johnson Temple C.O.G.I.C, located at 200 Nona Street in Leesville, Louisiana. Visitation is scheduled from 12pm until 1pm, with the funeral service commencing at the conclusion of visitation. Interment with military honors will follow on September 3, 2024, at 1:30pm at the Central Louisiana Veteran's Cemetery near Fort Johnson. A memorial service will also be held in Tuscaloosa, Alabama, on September 7th, 2024.
The Benson family would like to extend their heartfelt thanks for the outpouring of love and support during this time. Arrangements are being managed by Labby Memorial Funeral Home in Leesville, Louisiana.
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