Otha Ray Benson, affectionately known as “Unc” or “Paw,” passed away on January 27, 2026, at Maury Regional Medical Center. He was 83 years old.
Born on March 18, 1942, in Savannah, Tennessee, Otha was the son of the late Arvie Ellis Benson and Mary Fox Benson. A hard-working man through and through, Otha spent his life providing for those he loved. He worked as a carpenter, welder, and logger, never shying away from honest labor and always willing to lend his skills to help others in his community.
Otha was known for his generous heart and kind spirit. He enjoyed country dancing and could often be found sharing laughter and stories with family and friends. Above all else, he cherished his family deeply, taking great pride in each generation that followed him.
He is survived by his loving children, Gwen (“Booger”) Baker and Galen (Lisa) Benson; grandchildren, James Baker, Bobby Locke, and Jacob Benson; great-grandchildren, Riley Rogue Locke, Madison Locke, Everett Locke, and Selena Benson; and his brother, Buford Benson.
He was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Doris Woods Benson; grandson, Matthew Locke; granddaughter, Elizabeth Baker; and his siblings, Arvella Morris, Barbara Austin, Kermit Benson, Carlton Benson, Helen Williams, Billy Benson, Phyllis Warren, Dottie Warren, and Robbie Smith.
Otha Ray Benson will be remembered for his strong work ethic, his giving nature, and the love he poured into his family and community. His legacy lives on in the lives he touched and the family he held so dear.
Funeral Services Provided By Williams Funeral Home & Crematory – Columbia 2517 Trotwood Avenue, Columbia, TN 38401.
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This obituary was published by Williams Funeral Home & Crematory – Columbia.
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