Shirley Gene Benson

Shirley Gene Benson 78, of Piggott died Sunday, Oct. 11, 2009, at St. Bernards Regional Medical Center in Jonesboro. He was born in Richmond, Ind., on Feb. 24, 1931, to the late Roy Lee and Mabel Louise (Newton) Benson.

He lived most of his life in Clay County, and was a member of the Westside Church of Christ of Piggott, where he was active until his health would no longer permit him to attend. He retired as a District Manager from Ferrell Gas Company after 35 years of dedicated service.

He was married to Nancy Hollis July 3, 1958, and to this union two sons were born. He is survived by his wife Nancy of the home; sons, David Benson and wife Sandy of Memphis and Steven Benson and wife Betsy of Conway; two brothers, Bradley Benson and wife Etolla of Kennett, and Gail Benson and wife Sandra of Piggott; four grandchildren, Andrew, Nick, Corenne and Hannah Benson. He will be sadly missed by a host of other family members and friends.

In addition to his parents he was preceded in death by a brother, Dean Benson.

Funeral services will be held at 11 a.m. Wednesday, Oct. 14, 2009, in the Irby Funeral Home Chapel at Piggott with Brothers Charles Littrell and Lloyd Atherton officiating. Interment will be in the Piggott Cemetery. Active pallbearers are Joe Mowery, Joe Gregory, Mike Book, Trent Holcomb, Kurt Benson and Richard Benson.

Arrangements were by Irby Funeral Home of Piggott and those wishing may sign the online guest book may do so at www.irbyfuneralhome.com