Ralph Benton, Jr.

Ralph Benton Jr., 82, of Grantsboro, passed away Wednesday, January 6, 2021, at home.

Ralph played college baseball as a pitcher. He taught school in Pamlico County and was also coach. After retirement he worked as a commercial fisherman. He loved playing golf and was a true people person that always had a smile and a carefree/easygoing attitude about life.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Ralph Sr. and Clennie Benton; sister, Frances Horton; and brother-in-law, George Nance.

He is survived by his wife and love of 25 years, Dora Phillips Benton; son, Joe (Sandra) Small Jr.; daughter, Heather (Kenny) Stembridge; brother, Bernie (Mahala) Benton; sisters, Faye Nance and Linda (Tommy) Fields; eight grandchildren, Jennifer McCotter, Jessica Stembridge, Cortney Henderson, Joseph Small III, Ken Stembridge III, Kandice Stembridge, Tristyn Small and Taryn Small; and five great-grandchildren, Jonathan Gaskill, Sophia Buchanan, Addisyn Henderson, Elisha Buchanan and Tinsley Ormond.

His graveside service will be held 11:00 a.m., Saturday, January 9 ^th at Sandhill Cemetery, Reelsboro, with the Rev. Tommy Fields and Rev. Ricky Miller officiating.

In lieu of flowers the family suggested memorial contributions be made to Parkinson’s Foundation, 200 SE 1 ^st St. Suite 800. Miami, FL 33131; or a cancer research facility of your choice.