Richard Earl Benner

Richard Earl Benner, 79, passed away Friday, November 13 at his home in Morgan City. Richard was born November 10, 1936, to Clarence and Mildred Benner of Pennsylvania. He had one brother, Larry. Richard graduated high school and went on to serve in the United States Air Force. He left his home state and moved to Louisiana, where he married Morgan City resident Betty Ganaway. Though he had no biological children of his own, Betty's children and grandchildren became his own, and he remained until his death a cherished and beloved member of that family. A jack of all trades, Richard excelled at welding and retired from McDermott after many years of hard work and manual labor. He was not one to complain. His easy-going attitude and unique sense of humor was a constant source of happiness to those privileged to know him. Richard was a simple, modest man, who never allowed attention to be called to him, even when he deserved it most. (If you're reading this, we're sorry we put your name in the paper!) He loved John Wayne and Judy Garland, but more than anything, he loved college football. You couldn't walk into his home without hearing the game blasting from his TV. On a bad day, you might even have caught him cursing a player for a wrong move. He was blunt and always told the truth, even if it wasn't a kind truth, but his family loved this about him. Richard also had a deep passion for horses, something many never knew about him. Richard was a treasure to his family, always there to listen without judgment and offer honest, sound advice. He was a rock, a sounding board, and a source of endless support and encouragement to those he loved. Plus, he'd always offer you a cold Reese's when you'd visit. Sometimes, the smallest things are the biggest. Richard is survived by his daughter Dana Stephens and her husband Mark; grandchildren: Kayla Bergeron, Candace Comeaux, Juliana Comeaux, Kevin Comeaux Jr., Braiden Gaudet, Shelbi Sons, and Adrienne Harrington; and two great grandsons: Gabe and Jett Bergeron. He was preceded in death by his parents, Clarence and Mildred, his brother Larry, and his wife, Betty. He will always be remembered for his steadfast strength and unconditional offering of love to people who, admittedly, were not always the easiest people to love. There was nothing that man couldn't do. "Say not in grief he is no more - but live in thankfulness that he was." - Hebrew Proverb Private family services will be held.