Obituary of Alvin Benton

Alvin Benton, 72, of Ashtabula, passed away on Sunday, September 25, 2022, in his home surrounded by loved ones. Born July 14, 1950, in Urbana, AR, he was the son of the late J.T. and Ceola (Wainright) Benton. Making Ashtabula County his home at a young age, Alvin graduated Ashtabula High School where he found his passion for playing football. Go Panthers! Alvin went on to graduate from Ohio University where he continued his football career. In 1972, he was drafted by the Miami Dolphins in the 4th round and in 1973, he was signed by the Dallas Cowboys. After a knee injury, Alvin returned to Ashtabula. In 1978, he moved to Colorado to work for the former Consolidated Freightways as a supervisor in the dispatch department for more than 20 years. Due to his parents’ health, Alvin transferred to the Columbus office in 2001. In 2002, he started his career at the former Norfolk-Southern Railroad as an engineer and worked there for over 10 years before retiring. Recognized for his dedication, Alvin was inducted into the Ashtabula County Touchdown Hall of Fame in 2012. One of Alvin’s favorite pastimes was playing golf with his friends. He will be deeply missed by many. Left to cherish his memories is his beloved wife, Susan Benton; children, Max (Jolynne) Benton of Avon and Dale Harvey of Conneaut; siblings, Gloria D. Pettway, Connie Benton, Anthony Benton of Ashtabula, Ron (Bobrie) Benton, Bobby Benton, and David Benton of Cleveland, Patricia Ward and Maxine McHenry of Milwaukee, Wis., John Benton (Alicia Taylor) of Detroit, MI, and Corey (Ta Trecia) Benton of Columbus; grandchild, Emma Benton of Avon; and many nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his first wife, Lenice Benton; son, Josh Boles; brother, Homer (Betty) Thompson; brothers-in-law, Earnest Pettway and Harvey Ward; his parents Calling hour will be held from 12noon-1PM on Saturday, October 1, 2022, at Hiawatha COGIC, 3417 Hiawatha Ave, Ashtabula immediately followed by a memorial service starting at 1PM with Alvin’s nephew, Elder Sean Adam, as the eulogist. Memorial contributions may be made to Alzheimer's Association, Cleveland Area Chapter, P.O. Box 74924, Cleveland, OH 44194. Zaback-Williams-Ducro Funeral Home, 500 Prospect Road, Ashtabula, OH, is assisting the family with final arrangements. www.ducro.com.