William Benson Obituary

William Dean Benson was born March 10, 1944 to Willie Archie and Viola (Arms) Benson in Lampasas, TX. He died at the age of 81, on June 24, 2025, in Lubbock, TX.
William Benson, a man of many talents and a true friend, grew up in a family of seven near New Deal, Texas. He attended New Deal ISD until around his sixth grade year, 1957.
William met Mary Ann Golden in Benjamin, Texas, and they were married for 13 years. They were blessed with three daughters: Patricia, Karen, and Linda. Several years after a divorce he met Debbie Cortinas, and he became a father figure and mentor to her five children.
When the children were young, he cherished the summers spent at the lake, where he would enjoy fishing, boating, skiing, pulling the children on the inner tube and hiking.
A skilled semi-truck driver, William worked for his brother Charles Dean Benson, Robert Heath Trucking, and Frozen Food Express over the years. However, in 1980, a layoff from Frozen Food Express marked a turning point in his life. He decided to embark on a new journey as a mechanic in Slaton, Texas. Initially partnering with his brother-in-law at B&G Automotive. William later ventured out on his own, establishing Benson Automotive. He dedicated his life to this profession until 2017.
Even after retirement, William continued tinkering and mechanicing. He continued to explore his hobbies until his dementia symptoms took a toll on his well-being.
William had a special connection with the DPS officers in the Slaton community, and he often joined them on ride-alongs when given the opportunity.
In 2002, William made a move to Abernathy, Texas, where he purchased the old movie theater building on Main Street. There were several summers when he would set up under the old awning next to the movie theatre building to sell fruits and vegetables. He became a beloved figure in the community, known for his friendly presence outside the theater building, where he would greet everyone with a warm smile. Some children even received a special treat or two from William when they came walking by with their families.
William's love for animals was evident throughout his life. He owned dogs, cats, rabbits, and a pot belly pig.
William Benson will be remembered in countless ways by those who knew him. His kindness, generosity, and unwavering spirit will forever be etched in our hearts. Even though he is no longer with us, his memory will live on.
He was preceded in death by his parents, Willie Archie and Viola (Arms) Benson, a brother and a sister.
He is survived by his and Mary Ann's daughters, Patricia Richerson, Karen Combs and Linda Williamson, 9 grandchildren and 12 great grandchildren. He is also survived by Debbie Cotrinas and her children, Denise Hall, Adella Gutierrez, Christina Martinez, Gloria Vasquez and David Martinez, 8 grandchildren and 1 great grandchild.
The family suggests memorial contributions be sent to the Texas Girls and Boys Ranch, PO Box 5665, Lubbock, TX 79408.
The family will hold a celebration of life at a later date.