William D. Benson Sr.

William "Bill" D. Benson Sr., 89, of Corning, NY, passed away peacefully at his home on Saturday, July 26, 2025. He was born on November 6, 1935, in Corning, where he lived his entire life.

Bill was known for his sharp wit, love of laughter, and an ever-present sense of humor. Whether pulling a prank or cracking a well-timed joke, he brought joy and laughter to everyone around him. Somehow, he also had a special knack for attracting the most colorful, offbeat, and unforgettable characters wherever he went — and he embraced them all with the same kindness, curiosity, and quick humor that made him so loved.

He worked at Corning New Channels for 30 years and also dedicated over 30 years of service to the American Red Cross, where he taught CPR and first aid and played a vital role in disaster relief efforts. A devoted member of his community, Bill spent countless hours umpiring baseball games, refereeing basketball, coaching Little League, and serving with the Boy Scouts. His leadership and faith also guided his work as both deacon and moderator at the First Baptist Church of Corning.

Bill was a fierce card player who especially loved a good game of Hearts, and he rarely passed up a chance to gather around the table with friends and family. He was always willing to lend a hand to those in need and was deeply respected and loved by the Corning community.

Above all, Bill's greatest joy was his family. His love for them was immense, and he took great pride in the lives of his children, grandchildren, and the generations that followed.

He was predeceased by his loving wife of 58 years, Barbara J. Benson, and his parents, Flloyd and Idella Benson.

Bill is survived by his children: Cheryle A. Burdick of Elmira; William (Ginger) Benson Jr. of Florence, SC; and Deborah J. Sutton of McDonough, GA. He was a proud grandfather to Stacy Lynn (Vincent) Muscarella of Moore Park, CA; Sandra Burdick of SC; Tracy Carl of Elmira Heights; Shane Burdick of Elmira; Lynn Scott Benson of SC; Jessica (Jeremy) Bellew of Ohio; Christopher (Ikumi) Benson, U.S. Navy, Great Lakes; Troy Benson of SC; Amanda Garner of GA; Louis (Lauren) Sutton of SC; David (Sabrina) Sutton of GA; and Elaine (Nolan) Lowe of GA. Bill is also survived by 30 great-grandchildren and 3 great-great-grandchildren.

His legacy of service, humor, and love will live on in all who knew him.

A service will be held at Thurston Christian Church in Thurston, NY on Thursday, August 28. Visitation will be from 1:00 to 3:00 PM, with the funeral service beginning at 3:00 PM, followed by a dinner gathering.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to the Thurston Christian Church Outreach Program or to the American Red Cross, both of which were dear to Bill’s heart.

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