Larry Benton

Larry Benton, 82, of Columbia, Missouri, passed away peacefully on October 17, 2025, after a ten-month battle with mesothelioma. Born on February 22, 1943, to Roy and Margaret Benton on Love Street in Mexico, Missouri, Larry lived a life marked by service, leadership, and love.

After graduating from Hickman High School in 1961, Larry proudly served his country in the United States Navy for 7 years and 3 months. He began his naval career aboard the diesel-powered U.S.S. Croaker (SS-246) submarine, where he served as an Electrician’s Mate. Following his service on the Croaker, he attended the U.S. Naval Nuclear Power School, where he graduated second in his class. He then served aboard the nuclear-powered submarine U.S.S. George Washington Carver (SSBN-656), achieving the Petty Officer First Class (E6) rank as a Machinist’s Mate, on call 24/7, he evaluated the nuclear reactor water on command. His dedication and technical expertise reflected his lifelong pursuit of excellence and integrity.

In 1962, Larry married the love of his life, Cecilia “CeCe” Acton. Together, they shared 63 years of marriage filled with laughter, travel, and a deep love for family. He was a devoted husband, a steady and loving father to Brett Benton (Ronda) and Tonya Myers (Paul), and a proud grandfather to Blair and Brooklyn, who were the light of his life. He is also survived by his brother, Danny Benton. He was preceded in death by his parents and three sisters: Shirley Cannedy, Patsy Yates, and Bonnie Woods.

For 49 years, Larry proudly owned and operated Benton Homes, helping to shape neighborhoods and build dreams for countless families.

His dedication extended beyond his career; Larry gave tirelessly to his community through Cosmopolitan International. A member of the Columbia Luncheon Cosmopolitan Club since 1975, he was recognized for 50 years of service earlier this year. He served as President of that club from 1981–1982 and went on to found and charter the Columbia Show-Me Cosmopolitan Club in 1987. His leadership extended to the global level, serving as International President from 1993–1994. Larry earned Cosmopolitan International’s two highest honors — the Patrick J. Hodgins Distinguished Member Award in 1998 and the Cosmo of the Year Award in 2005 —achievements that reflected his lifelong passion for helping others. Recognizing his lifelong commitment, the newest shelter house in Columbia’s Rock Quarry Park will bear his name.

Larry’s faith was a steady anchor in his life. He attended Woodcrest Chapel for many years, serving joyfully as a greeter, welcoming others with his trademark warmth and kindness.

He found immense joy in planning family vacations down to the smallest detail, hosting family/friends/Cosmo gatherings, cooking elaborate meals (he cooked a mean BBQ pork steak), and designing beautiful gardens. Larry, a dedicated Kansas City Chiefs fan, loved taking RV trips across the country with CeCe.

In place of flowers, the family asks that donations be made to any diabetes organization in Larry’s memory. Larry dedicated much of his life to Cosmopolitan International, a service organization supporting diabetes research, education, and community wellness. His decades of leadership and tireless volunteer work reflected a deep compassion for those affected by the disease and a lifelong commitment to making a difference in the lives of others.

Larry Benton’s legacy of service, love, and laughter will live on in the numerous lives he touched.

Per his request, a celebration of life to be planned later.