Dennis Wayne Benson was born on January 13, 1948, in Okmulgee to Mary Alice Lee. He passed away Monday evening, January 20, 2025, in Okmulgee at 77 years of age, with his loving daughter Bridget Shrum and niece Devon Scott by his side.

Dennis enlisted in the Marine Corps in 1967 during the Vietnam War. During his service in the USMC, he went to Okinawa, where he was a helicopter mechanic. He served for four years, then returned home. Dennis did some oilfield work and worked with his friends doing some brick stone work. In 1983 was his greatest accomplishment, his beloved daughter Bridget was born. After that, Dennis began teaching head start in 1986 at Okmulgee Head Start. He loved working with children. He continued his education at Conners State College, attending night classes to obtain a degree in public education.

Dennis enjoyed fishing. To say he was an avid fisherman would be an understatement. Casting a line and being out by the water is where he preferred to be. He also had a fondness for his OU Sooners. But above all else, he loved spending time with his family, especially his grandchildren.

Dennis was preceded in death by his father Tuffy Lee and his sister Linda Kay Lee.

Survivors include his loving mother, January 13, 1948 – January 20, 2025

Mary A. Lee, his daughter, that was his greatest joy, Bridget Benson-Shrum, her significant other Monty Ross, and his two greatest blessings, his grandchildren, Maxton Shrum and Jocelyn Shrum of Okmulgee, sisters, Connie Scott and husband Keith of Smithville and Kathy Bell and husband Jeff of Hulbert, a brother, Jim Pannell and wife Vickie of Checotah, along with a host of nieces, nephews, great nieces and nephews and other family members and friends.

A visitation will be held Wednesday, January 29, 2025, from 12-7 p.m. at McClendon- Winters Funeral Home Chapel in Okmulgee. Funeral services will be at 2 p.m. Thursday, January 30, 2025, at First Baptist Church of Okmulgee. Interment will follow at Morris Cemetery in Morris.

Arrangements have been entrusted to McClendon-Winters Funeral Home of Okmulgee. Memories, condolences, photos and videos may be shared with the family on Dennis’ Tribute Page at www.mcclendon- winters.com.