Campy Benson

(From Parker Mortuary)

Campy Benson, Joplin, MO, died February 27, 2024 at Barnes- Jewish Hospital, St. Louis, MO., after a long battle with diabetes, CKD, and congestive heart failure.

He was born May 6, 1955 to Johnny and Dorothy Benson, Kerrville, Texas. He is preceded in death by his parents and an older brother, Lonnie. 

Survivors include his two sisters, Chris Pettigree and Gloria Mincey, one brother, Steve Benson. In addition, other family members include his wife Colleen; two children, Ashley and spouse Jules, Aaron; and two granddaughters, Brooklyn and Kaidence Benson.

Campy attended Tivy High, graduating 1974, where he played football and worked at Gibson’s Department Store. In his free time he hung around his grandparents' restaurant, The Famous Door. After high school, he graduated Valedictorian at Midwest Bible Institute in Texas. Then on to MSSC in Joplin, where he was co-captain of the Cheer squad, and where he received a Bachelor’s Degree in 1981. The following year he continued his education at Warrensburg, Mo. In counseling.

In 1983, he married Colleen Benson of whom two children were born, Ashley and Aaron. As years went by the couple brought several foster children in the home until 1992; Jerry, Michael (Kim and Tyler), Quinn, Al, Brian, Chris, Damon, Salena, James, and Kevin. The Bensons always insisted on the children attending Tristate Youth Camp in Wyandotte, OK.

Campy’s interest in the restaurant business allowed him to work at Benito's, Red Lobster, Holiday Inn, and Jim Bob's. Upon semi-retirement, he worked 9 years at Checks and Plaid Laundromat in Joplin.

Campy enjoyed keeping in contact with friends, southern gospel music, being outdoors, fishing, biking, or playing tennis. He loved laughing with his granddaughters. Campanella always wore a smile and never pre-judged, he met you where you were. He will be greatly missed.

There will be a Celebration of Life at 1:00 p.m. on Saturday, March 16, 2024 at Frisco Church in Webb City, Mo.