Thomas Eliot Benner, Jr. (August 19, 1928 - December 27, 2018)

In loving memory of
Thomas Eliot Benner, Jr.
  • August 19, 1928
  • -
  • December 27, 2018

  • Obituary
  • Sign Tribute Wall
  • Send an E-Card
  • Light a Candle
  • Send Flowers
  • Photos

Obituary

Thomas E. Benner, Ed.D, 90, of North Fort Myers, passed away peacefully under the care of Hope Hospice of Cape Coral. He was born in Puerto Rico on August 19, 1928 where his father served as Chancellor of the University of Puerto Rico.

Dr. Benner dedicated his life to public education. He served as a teacher, principal, district level administrator, assistant superintendent, Superintendent and college administrator. His career took him to Illinois, New York and Florida. Locally, he held the positions of Superintendent of the Charlotte County Schools, Dean of Business at Edison Community College and Assistant Superintendent for Business in the Lee County Schools.

Tom served his country in the US Navy, enlisting in 1945 at the age of 17. After his military service, he began his college career culminating in earning his doctorate at the University of Illinois. Among his favorite retirement activities was his regular golf game with friends at Eastwood Golf Course in Fort Myers, Florida. He avidly cheered on the Dolphins and eventually warmed up to travel.

In the words of his goddaughter, Kaylee, he taught us so much about life, integrity, pride and love. He will be remembered for his ready smile, his quiet and kind demeanor and for the valuable contributions made to many public schools and students.

Dr. Benner is survived by his wife, Sharon, and three children, daughter Jill McEwen (Al) of Atlanta, Georgia; son Thomas R. Benner (Pat) of Durham, North Carolina; and son David Benner of Naples, Florida; beloved grandchildren and great grandchildren. He was proceeded in death by his parents, Thomas Eliot Benner and Laura Hester Benner, and sister, Laura Moffet.

Arrangements are under the care of Baldwin Brothers Funeral Home. Memorial contributions in Dr. Benner’s memory may be made to his favorite charity, the Salvation Army (give.SalvationArmyusa.org). A Celebration of Life/ Open House will be held at the residence on January 12 from 3:00-6:00.

Family and friends may sign the guest register or leave condolence messages at www.baldwincremation.com.

 


Send flowers to the family to show you care. Order Now

Tribute Wall

Leave a reply



Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

  1. Bonnie J. Dewar lit a candle:
    06 Jan 2019
    Lit since January 6, 2019 at 1:42:13 AM

  2. Bonnie J. Dewar says:
    06 Jan 2019
    Sharon, my deepest sympathies in the death of your greatly loved husband.

  3. Herbert and Nancy Wiseman lit a candle:
    03 Jan 2019
    Lit since January 3, 2019 at 1:20:39 PM

  4. Bobbie D'Alessandro lit a candle:
    31 Dec 2018
    Lit since December 31, 2018 at 12:42:46 PM

  5. Bobbie D'Alessandro lit a candle:
    31 Dec 2018
    Lit since December 31, 2018 at 12:42:05 PM

Send an E-Card

Please select an e-card

    Required fields are marked *
     

    Note: The code below resets with every submit of the form
    captcha