Mr. Arbie G. Benton Jr.

Arbie Benton Jr., 84, of Decatur, Georgia, was born to the late Alberta Reed and Arbie Benton Sr. on June 18, 1941, in Atlanta, Georgia. He passed away peacefully on August 12, 2025. Arbie was preceded in death by his beloved wife of 59 years, Sallie Benton; his parents; sisters Ardella Turner and Gracie Benton; and brothers Willie Smith and Thema Love. He received his early education at Forest Road Elementary and David T. Howard High School. Arbie lived a life characterized by his devotion to family, commitment to community, and dedication to work. As a young adult, Arbie met Sallie Mae Benton, and they were married on August 6, 1960. Together, they raised four wonderful children: Gwen, Michael, Adrienne, and Audrey. After the passing of Sallie’s parents, her two youngest siblings, Deborah and Stacy, were welcomed into the Benton family household with open arms. In the 1970s, Arbie joined East Lake United Methodist Church, where he became an active member of the Usher Board, served as Treasurer, and participated in the Finance Committee. His involvement went beyond financial stewardship; he played a crucial role in organizing and facilitating church activities, demonstrating his deep commitment to serving others and uplifting his community. Arbie appreciated life’s simple pleasures. He enjoyed bowling, fishing, and often tried his luck with the lottery. For many years, he was a dedicated member of the "Good Guys Club" (GG's). These hobbies brought him joy and were often shared with family and friends. Throughout his professional life, Arbie was known for his strong work ethic and reliability. He began working as a teenager at his father's café, "Benton Do Drop In," in Conyers, Georgia, where he served as a cashier. Arbie built a long and industrious career across several fields, starting as a truck driver for Associated Groceries. He later worked as a machine operator and manager at Frye Manufacturing. Additionally, Arbie held a position at Russell-Stanley and used his skills in maintenance for the DeKalb County School System. Beyond his professional accomplishments, Arbie was a wonderful husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather, brother, cousin, mentor, and friend. He was known for his unique craftiness and creativity. Arbie consistently supported the activities of the children in the family and often participated in those activities himself. Arbie leaves behind a loving family that will cherish his memory. He is survived by four children: Gwen (Harvey) Johnson, Michael (Carolyn) Heath, Adrienne (Willie) Coleman, and Audrey (Michael) Holland. Additionally, he is remembered by two siblings, Michael (Lisa) Ringer and Cecil (Carolyn) Benton; two sisters-in-law, Wanda Paden and Deborah Bowens; and four brothers-in-law, Frank Turner, John Heath, Donald (Bonnie) Heath, and Stacy (Felicia) Heath. Arbie is also survived by his grandchildren: Marcus Sr., Steven (Sarah), Stacy, Marquez, Jamel (Jerlisa), Retieka(Jonathan), Skylar(Austin), Jared, Michael Jr., Maia(Derric), and Donald Jr. He will be fondly remembered by his great-grandchildren: Marcus Jr., Shane, Silas, Kerry, Matthew, Ray'ana, Warren, TyShawna, King, Milan, Queen, Aria, Sanai, and Nyla, along with many nieces and nephews. Arbie Benton Jr.’s legacy is one of faith, love, family, and hard work. May his memory bring comfort to all who knew him.

Tributes

Mr. Arbie G. Benton Jr.

June 18, 1941 - August 12, 2025