Tyrone "Ty" Benton

Ty Benton, a loving husband, devoted father, and vibrant member of the Brevard, North Carolina community, passed away peacefully on November 29, 2025 at the age of 85. A unique blend of scientist and artist, Ty was a man defined by his boundless curiosity, creativity and remarkable sense of humor.

Born on January 14, 1940, in Opp, Alabama, Ty was the beloved son of Frank and Selma Benton. He spent his early years in Opp before his family relocated to Pensacola, Florida when he was 12. As a young man, he displayed determination and leadership by achieving the rank of Eagle Scout. He was known for his resourcefulness, often hitchhiking between Pensacola and Opp to visit his cherished grandparents.

Ty’s unwavering commitment to education was evident in his college years. He worked his way through Georgia Tech, alternating between quarters of working to save money and quarters of attending school to earn his Bachelors in Industrial Engineering.

He began his professional career after college at Monsanto. In 1973, Ty and his family moved to Brevard, North Carolina, a community he would call home for the rest of his life. He was an active member of First Baptist Church for many years. He worked at the local paper manufacturing plant for decades, dedicating his career to the same facility despite it changing ownership from Olin Mills, Ecusta and Gladfelter. During his tenure, he rose to the position of department head. In his later years, he also contributed to his community as a member of the Board of Adjustments in Brevard.

After his retirement, Ty, along with several colleagues formed the business CRR, which thrived for five years. He was a man of diverse and rich interests, loving history and astronomy. He was an avid hiker, often leading his wife and teenage children on excursions through Pisgah Forest and the blue Ridge, including challenging Art Loeb Trail. Among his favorite hikes were Pilot Mountain, Sam’s Knob and Moore Cove Falls. He especially loved taking pictures of the region’s many waterfalls. After he retired, he spent countless hours continuing his hiking passion with friends.

His artistic endeavors included being a talented photographer, with his work often sold in businesses throughout Transylvania County, including the Chamber of Commerce. He also found great pleasure working with stained glass, creating beautiful lamps, windows and decorative pieces like hummingbirds, and sold his stained glass throughout the county. He crafted metal windchimes and enjoyed making practical items like outdoor benches and other furniture. Additionally, he enjoyed the process of making homemade wine.

Above all, Ty treasured his family and friends. He was a Cub Scout leader for his son, David. He learned to play poker from his brother-in-law and taught his wife, Lou, how to play pinochle. He and his wife shared a close group of friends for 50 years, playing bridge and celebrating life’s milestones- marriages and births-together.

He taught his children to be free thinkers, encouraging them to question and to learn throughout their lives. He was renowned for his playful, jokester personality. He had signature greetings that always brought a smile: "I’m glad you get to see me!” His favorite poem, which perfectly encapsulated his lighthearted view of the world, was: “One day a bird flew by and dropped some whitewash in my eye. Now I don’t worry and I don’t cry, I’m just glad that cows don’t fly.”

The family extends a special thanks to Four Seasons Hospice for their compassionate support.

Ty was preceded in death by his parents, Frank and Selma Benton, and his sister, Mary Frank Collins.

He is survived by his loving wife, Lou Benton, who he married in November 1964. He is also survived by his devoted children, Lorri Benton and David Benton (Amber). His legacy continues through his many grandchildren. Catherine Michniak, Adam Michniak (Isabel Fernandez), and Hannah Michniak, and David and Amber’s children: Jonathan Benton, Jesse Benton, James Benton, Joseph Benton, Nathan Benton and Elijah Benton. He was also a proud great-grandfather to Faelan (Hannah’s son), and Zoe and Lily (Adam and Isabel’s daughters).

A private service will be held for the family.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that memorial donations be made to Cove Shelter in Brevard, NC. (https://shelter.covechurchbrevard.org/donate/)