Ray James Benton

Ray James Rivers Benton, age 63, of Columbus, Ohio, departed this life to be with the Lord Jesus Christ on Thursday, June 8, 2023. He was born on May 1, 1960, from the union of Jessie Rivers and Louise Benton.

Ray attended Columbus City schools and worked alongside his cousin, Steve Reid, as a Plumber Assistant for over 30 years. At the age 13, Ray accepted Christ at Grace Baptist Church. Praying every day was important to him. As a child, Ray was energetic and, like his mother, enjoyed being the life of the party. One of his favorite pastimes was impersonating Bruce Lee, Michael Jackson, and Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. He also enjoyed playing the lottery, watching sports, and investigative crime shows.

Ray was preceded in death by his parents, Jessie Rivers and Louise Benton; nephew, Larry Benton-Rode; and great-nephew, Michael Woods, Jr. 

Ray is survived by his “Little” big sister, Tina Benton; uncle, James (Patricia) Benton; aunt, Shirley Benton; nieces, Tia, Tanisha, Tashawna, and Latonya Benton; nephews, Terrance and Deshawn Benton-Rode; longtime companion, Debra Riley; stepchildren, Stephanie, Jermaine, and Antwone Riley; plus a host of great-nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends.

Rest on, Dear Brother, rest on. We love you tenderly!

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