Fred Thomas “Tom” Benson, Jr., of Richardson, Texas passed away February 12, 2012 at the age of 72. He was born August 25, 1939 to Fred Thomas, Sr. and Ora (Christie) Benson in Canadian, Oklahoma. Tom was raised in Oklahoma where he graduated from Indianola High School. He is a graduate of Northeastern State University earning a Bachelor and Master’s Degree in Education. Tom married Donna Louise Gee on December 19, 1959, in Indianola, Oklahoma. He taught for 12 years in Gallup, New Mexico and 22 years in Richardson where he taught Industrial Arts Classes including Stagecraft. Tom enjoyed woodworking and was active in the Elks Lodge for a number of years.
He is survived by his wife Donna Benson of Richardson, Texas; children, Tauna Benson of Plano, Texas, Tina Carter and husband Kyle of Frisco, Texas; grandsons, Mack Henry Carter and Tommy Gee Carter; sisters, Lela Yates and husband Paul, Millie Preston, Jeanie Coop and husband Bill; brother, JB Benson and wife Joann, all of McAlester, Oklahoma a host of nieces and nephews and many other loving family and friends.
Tom was preceded in death by his parents, Fred Benson and Ora Benson; brothers, Robert and Kenneth Benson and a sister, Gladys Davenport.
A memorial service will be held, 2:00 p.m., Saturday, February 18, 2012 at Turrentine-Jackson-Morrow Chapel in Allen, Texas. The family will receive friends during a remembrance gathering Friday evening beginning at 6:00 p.m. at the funeral home.