Bobby Ray Benson, age 74, passed away on Saturday, August 12, 2023, at UNC Johnston Health Hospital in Smithfield. Born on January 5, 1949, in Johnston County, he was a son to the late Gaston Benson and Bonnie Hayes Benson.

Bobby was a simple man with a big heart who loved his family dearly. He was a master carpenter and a very skilled wood worker who could build just about anything. In his free time, Bobby enjoyed cooking pigs for big crowds and cookouts.

Per Bobby's wishes, there will be no formal services.

In addition to his parents, Bobby is preceded in death by his son, Bobby Clay Benson; brothers, Aaron Benson and Durwood Benson; and sisters, Brenda Benson House and Margaret Dixon.

Bobby is survived by his wife, Lona Carol Benson; son, Clent Benson; brother, Duke Benson (Carol Benson) sisters, JoAnn Hester (Glen Hester) Vicky Edwards (Forrest Edwards); grandchildren, Hunter Benson, Jordan Benson, Spencer Thompson, Heather Benson, and great grandchildren, Lennox Barbour, Jase Radford, and Benton Radford.