Ben Stingley (Benefield Ernest Stingley) obituaries

Ben Stingley (Benefield Ernest Stingley), of Harlingen, Texas, went on to glory Sept. 5, 2021, after a battle with (non-COVID) double pneumonia. Born in Guymon, Oklahoma on June 11, 1945, Ben grew up in the Oklahoma and Texas Panhandles, meeting his wife of 52 years, Maureen Lee Reid, in a Denny's in Amarillo, Texas, where she waited tables and he drank coffee with friends. Married on June 11, 1969, Ben and Maureen “Snoozebarth/Rose o' Sharon/Sting” went on to have three kids, Shelley “Waga Bear” Ruth, Angela “Jump Bear” Roxanne, and Paul “Duck” Benefield, II, (each as nicknamed by Ben).

After obtaining his bachelor degrees in English and History from West Texas State, Ben briefly taught school before moving to Austin where he worked for the Texas State Archives. There he developed a love for genealogy, eventually becoming a certified genealogist. His love of history and genealogy and talent for research eventually resulted in his tracing the Stingley family line to the early 1500's in Germany.

Ben loved literature, poetry, history, and music. He was a wordsmith, penning many poems as well as hosting “Let's Go Fishing,” a radio segment in which he explored interesting word origins. He loved the Father above all else and taught his family to do so, as well. He was a Mason, a member of MENSA, Sons of the American Revolution, the Elks, the American Legion, and the VFW, having been a reservist in the U.S. Army. He was a lifelong OU fan. He loved to joke around, laugh, and drink beer. A touching piece of music predictably brought him to tears. He never carried a grudge

and always stressed the importance of treating others well. A very gifted writer, we wish he had written this himself. Without a doubt, he would have made you laugh. He is sorely missed by his wife; three kids; eight grandkids; multiple sisters, nieces and nephews; and three extremely loved dogs. We pray Ben's blessing prayer over each reader: May the good Lord guide, direct, and protect you in all you do and say this day. This goes for family, friends, and business. And send his angels to watch over you if need be. In Jesus' name, Amen. We love you, Father.

A get-together to celebrate Ben will be held at the VFW, 2006 Whalen Rd, San Benito, Texas, on Oct. 9, 2021, at noon. Randy McReynolds will give a short word and we will share favorite Ben stories over a beer and food.

Memorials can be made to Ben's favorite church, Shepherd's Chapel, PO Box 416, Gravette, AR 72736.