Robert Carl Benson

It is with deep sadness, yet with peace in our hearts, that we announce the passing of Robert Carl Benson on May 23, 2026, at the age of 91.

Robert was born on August 5, 1934, in Akron, Ohio, to his loving parents, Marlin and Hilda Benson. He lived a long and meaningful life marked by dedication to his faith, his family, his country, and his profession.

Robert proudly served in the United States Army from March 1957 to June 1959, including active duty during the Korean War. His commitment to fellow veterans extended throughout his life through his active memberships in the American Legion and the Veterans of Foreign Wars of the United States.

He devoted more than 37 years of his professional career to The Goodyear Tire & Rubber Company in Akron, Ohio. Through his dedication and expertise, he rose to become Director of Finance for the Goodyear Tire Racing Division, retiring in 2000. His work reflected a strong sense of integrity, leadership, and excellence.

Robert was a man of broad interests and deep appreciation for both professional excellence and the natural world, as reflected by his memberships in the National Association of Accountants, the National Geographic Society, the Humane Society, the National Parks Conservation Association, and the Arbor Day Foundation.

Faith was a cornerstone of his life. He was a devoted member of Montrose Zion United Methodist Church for over 60 years, where he found community, purpose, and fellowship. During winters and his years living full time in Naples, Florida, he attended East Naples United Methodist Church, continuing his lifelong commitment to his faith.

Robert was preceded in death by his parents, Marlin and Hilda Benson; his uncle and aunt, Walter and Lena Harris; and his beloved wife of 64 years, Dorris Benson.

He leaves behind a loving family who will cherish his memory: his only son, Robert C. Benson II (Mary) of Franklin, Tennessee; four grandchildren, Nicholas Benson of Louisville, Kentucky, Molli Deaton (Chris) of Franklin, Tennessee, Cole Benson of Franklin, Tennessee, and Rylie Benson of Franklin, Tennessee; and one great-grandchild, Oliver Benson of Louisville, Kentucky.

Robert will be remembered for his unwavering devotion to his family, his steadfast faith, his distinguished career, and his quiet strength. His legacy of love, service, and dedication will continue to live on through all who knew him.

A Funeral Service will be held at 11:00 a.m. on SATURDAY, June 20, 2026, at Billow FAIRLAWN Chapel, 85 Miller Road, Fairlawn, Ohio 44333. Friends and family are cordially invited to attend calling hours two hours prior to the service. Interment will follow at Reid Hill Cemetery in Granger Township.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Montrose Zion United Methodist Church, 565 N. Cleveland Massillon Road, Akron, Ohio 44333.

Services in care of the Billow Funeral Homes and Crematory, 85 N. Miller Road Akron, OH 44333 (Billow FAIRLAWN Chapel)