Gary Dean Benton, age 60, died Thursday, March 2, 2017 at Carolinas Medical Center in Charlotte. Born in Cleveland County on July 22, 1956 he was the son of the late Wilbur and Mary Sue Putnam Benton. Gary was a member of Nazareth Baptist Church in Blacksburg SC. He served in the United States Navy where he worked on airplanes. Gary retired from the construction business. He adored his grandchildren and loved all animals. He enjoyed working in his shop. In addition to his parents, he is preceded in death by his sister, Jackie Benton.

Gary is survived by his wife of 32 years, Sandy White Benton; a daughter, Jerrilynn Terry and husband David of Shelby; two sisters, Diane Powell of Shelby and Tina Bowen and husband Ricky of Grover; two brothers, Larry Benton and wife Jeanie of Cherryville; and Billy Benton and wife Cindy of Kings Mountain; three grandchildren, Brandie English, Scottie English and wife Keely, and Tyler Terry; numerous nieces and nephews; and his pet goats, "Jill and Lil".

Memorial service will be held on Monday, March 6, 2017, at 11:00 am in the chapel of Cecil M. Burton Funeral Home and Crematory. The family will receive friends following the service.

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Memorials can be made to: Cleveland County Humane Society, 1609 E. Marion St, Shelby, NC 28150.

Cecil M. Burton Funeral Home and Crematory is serving the family of Mr. Benton.

Guest Registry is available at www.cecilmburtonfuneralhome.com