Bennie J. Lawhon was born on September 1, 1957, in Little Rock, Arkansas, and passed away peacefully on January 30, 2026. He leaves behind a legacy rooted in love, service, and a deep commitment to the people around him.
Bennie spent much of his life helping others. Since 2013, he worked as a medical supply driver, delivering medications and essential supplies to cancer patients. It wasn’t just a job to him—he truly cared about the people he served and took pride in being someone they could count on.
A devoted member of New Hope Church of the Nazarene, Bennie lived out his faith in practical ways. He checked on shut-ins, mowed their lawns, brought groceries, and sat with them to make sure they never felt forgotten. These simple acts of kindness were just who he was.
Bennie was a proud father to his three daughters: Malorie Wheeler and her husband Brook, Rachel Terry and her husband Jimmy, and Taylor Lawhon. He adored his seven grandchildren—Dylan May and wife Shelby, Boston Wheeler, Logan Wheeler, Chase Brantley and wife Abbigale, Trinity Terry, Harper Terry, and Brayden Cash—and was especially proud to welcome his great-grandson, Wesley May.
Anyone who knew Bennie knew his personality. He had a full head of dark, thick, wavy hair and an even fuller spirit. He loved cheering on the Razorbacks, working in his yard, and spending time outside with his loyal dog, Charlie. Bennie had a gift for making people laugh and was always ready to entertain. His family treasures memories of him dancing, bowling, and shooting basketball with his brothers and nephews on the dirt court behind Grandma’s house—memories filled with laughter and love.
Bennie faced many health challenges in his life, but met them all with determination, humor, and faith. One of his favorite sayings, “Ain’t no step for a Stepper,” became a reminder to his children to keep moving forward no matter what. His daughters are grateful for the years they were given with him—years that included all three of their weddings, the births of his grandchildren, and even the arrival of a great-grandson who proudly carries his name.
In his final days, Bennie shared laughter and memories with his daughters, reflecting on their childhood and reminding them just how deeply he loved them. He could be stubborn and difficult at times, but his love was never in question. He will be remembered for his humor, honesty, faith, and generous heart.
Bennie was preceded in death by his parents, Bennie J. Lawhon, Sr. and Eva Willene (Johnson) Lawhon, his brother Johnny Lawhon; and sister-in-law, Betty Lawhon. He is survived by his siblings Ronnie Lawhon, Vernon Lawhon, Sue Ausburn and husband Bill, Penny Duncan and husband Eddie, and Bonnie Hooks and husband Tommy, along with many extended family members and friends who were blessed to know him.
A Celebration of Life will be held at Smith Family Funeral Home in Benton, Arkansas, on Monday, February 9, 2026. Visitation will begin at 1:00 PM, followed by the service at 2:00 PM. In honor of Bennie’s giving heart, family has requested memorials be made to New Hope Church of the Nazarene, 5519 Atwood Road, Little Rock, Arkansas 72206 or to a charity of your choice.
As we say goodbye, we take comfort in knowing Bennie is now whole, healed, and free—dancing in the presence of his Savior, with no pain to hold him back. His love, laughter, and faith will continue to live on in all who knew him.
Services entrusted to Smith-Benton Funeral Home. Online guestbook: www.SmithFamilyCares.com.
Smith Family Funeral Home Benton
Smith Family Funeral Home Benton
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