J.B. Benton

Jesse Becton Benton, 94, of Fremont, died Wednesday, December 24, 2025.

Funeral, Fremont Missionary Baptist Church, Saturday, January 3, 2026, 2:00 PM, followed by a time of visiting and sharing in the Fellowship Hall.

Born on October 22, 1931, JB lived a long, full life shaped by hard work, humor, generosity, and a deep appreciation for the simple joys that made each day meaningful.

A man of deep and abiding faith, JB was a longtime, faithful member of Fremont Missionary Baptist Church. His presence in the congregation was a steady one—marked by quiet devotion, service, and a heart always open to others. His faith guided his life and was evident in the kindness, humility, and grace with which he treated everyone he met.

JB was a man who thrived outdoors. He spent many peaceful mornings and evenings fishing in the Pamlico Sound. He also became an avid golfer, finding both challenge and relaxation on the course, enjoying the game as much for the company as for the sport itself. In his younger years, he played softball, where he was known as Pop, bringing the same spirit of camaraderie and good humor that defined so much of his life. In later years, he grew bountiful crops of tomatoes that were enjoyed by many in the community.

A talented painter by trade, JB left a lasting mark on Fremont and the surrounding communities. Many homes in the area still carry his careful craftsmanship, each brushstroke a quiet testament to his skill, pride, and dedication.

Above all, JB cherished his family. He was a source of steady guidance, gentle wisdom, and unwavering support. His presence brought comfort, and his kindness left an imprint on everyone fortunate enough to know him.

JB will be deeply missed, but his legacy lives on—in the stories shared, the homes he touched, his humorous nature, and the love he gave so freely.

Surviving is his wife of 69 years, Eunice Little Benton; sons, Colby Benton (Jan) of Richmond, VA and Tony Benton (Rachel) of Kenly; daughter-in-law, Lisa Benton of New Bern; grandchildren, Brooke Benton, T. J. Benton (Eva-Lin), Matt Benton (Andrea), Mark Benton (Jody) and James Benton (Casey); great-grandchildren, Camden, Sulley, Nora, Jacob, Riley, Grayson, Luke, Josie and Joey Benton, and Mackenzie Grveles, Jesse & Mary Kate Buker; step-granddaughter, Holly Stems (J.J.), step-great-grandchildren, Hayden, Owen and Oliver Stems; sister, Geraldine Holland of Goldsboro; brother, Bobby Benton (Sandra) of Pikeville.

Preceding him in death was a son, Vann Benton; parents, Willie Herman and Irene Langston Benton of Wayne County; grandson, Daniel Benton; great-granddaughters, Emily & Charlotte Benton; brothers, Ray Benton and Carl Benton.

Memorials are suggested to Fremont Missionary Baptist Church, PO Box 906, Fremont, NC 27830-0906.

Arrangements by Wilson Memorial Service, 2811 Fieldstream Dr. N, Wilson, 237-7171; www.wilsonmemorialservice.com