Ernest Benton

Mr. Ernest Benton of Prince William Road near Brunson, died early Sunday morning at his residence.

Mr. Benton was born in Hampton County, February 1, 1944 a son of the late J. C. Benton and Viola Hughey Benton. He had worked for Coastal Contractors in Beaufort, S. C. for 40 years and before his retirement worked an additional five years for a private individual also in Beaufort.
Mr. Benton started working with his hands and constructing things at a young age. He later became a Master Carpenter, taking pride in his work and work ethics. He truly loved working in the Beaufort area and building beautiful homes there. He would often reminisce about the people that he had worked with, the people that he had built homes for, and the experiences that he had during his working career.

Mr. Benton also loved farming and seeing things grow. As the years progressed, he concentrated on his vegetable garden, sharing his produce with others, and his sweet corn was particularly enjoyed by many.

He loved children and their well being held a special place in his heart. Children always brought a smile to his face.
He was a member of the Sandy Run Baptist Church.

Surviving are:  His wife: Mary Ayer Benton of Brunson; Son:  Dr. Todd Benton of Brunson; Brothers:  John Benton and wife Wanda of Ridgeland, Edward Benton and wife Marie of Brunson; and a sister:  Alice Curtis of Estill; Granddaughter:  Abby Benton of Mt. Pleasant and presently attending school in New York City; Brother in Law:  Arthur Earl Ayer and wife Mary of Olar, and a Sister in Law:  Janet Ulmer and husband Randy of Lodge.

There are a number of nieces, nephews, great nieces and great nephews.
The family would like to express their thanks to Gay Ayer Deer, caregivers from Low Country Family Services, Inc., Lowcountry Council of Governments, and Crescent Hospice for their help and assistance.

The family suggests that those who wish may send memorials to the Gooding Cemetery Association, Mrs. Mary Ulmer, 3758 Altman Road, Hampton, S. C. 29924.

Funeral services will be Thursday, March 30,2023 at 2 P.M. in the Chapel of Peeples-Rhoden Funeral Home, conducted by Rev. R. P. Hodge and Elder Robert Dobson, with burial in the Gooding Cemetery.

Visitation will begin at 1 P.M. Thursday at the Funeral Home prior to the services, located at 300 Mulberry Street West in Hampton.