Camillia Benton

Camillia Chivon Benton was born on March 15, 1980, to Patricia Anne Benton and the late Pradis Lee Benton.

At an early age, she joined New Mount Union Baptist Church in Junction City, Arkansas, where her faith and love for others became an important part of her life. Throughout the years, she faithfully served in many capacities, including as president of the Young Matrons, choir director, and a dedicated member of the kitchen and food ministry. She remained a devoted member until her health no longer allowed her to serve.

Camillia graduated from Strong High School in Strong, Arkansas. She developed a love for basketball at an early age and competed in numerous local and state competitions. She later attended Southern Arkansas University in Magnolia, Arkansas, where she earned a bachelor's degree in criminal justice.

She was employed by the Arkansas Department of Corrections as a probation and parole officer for nearly 10 years. She also worked at Milbank Manufacturing, the Department of Human Services, and the South Arkansas Developmental Center.

As her life's journey continued, Camillia felt called to pursue a different path that would allow her to make a lasting impact on the lives of children and young people. When given the opportunity to serve, she transitioned into education and began teaching music at Yocum Elementary School. When God opened another door, her lifelong dream came full circle. She joined Junction City Elementary School in Junction City, Arkansas, as a Physical Education teacher, Head Girls' Basketball Coach, and Assistant Girls' Varsity Basketball Coach. In her dream job, she was able to combine her passion for sports with her desire to encourage and inspire the next generation.

She was preceded in death by her father, Pradis Benton; her paternal grandparents, Thurmon Benton and Willie Douglas; her maternal grandparents, Ardis Brown and Lillie Mae Adams; and her godson, Jamal Norman.

She leaves to cherish her precious memory her loving mother, Patricia Anne Benton of Arkansas; her children, Adrianne Larry of Mississippi and Pechone Larry, Jr. (Shanka) of Arkansas; her loving companion, Lonnie Clemons of Arkansas; her bonus children, Ashley Larry of Arkansas, Courtney Larry of Texas, DeCoria of Arkansas, Kortni of Louisiana, Lamarion, London Clemons, and Lonnie Clemons, Jr., all of Arkansas; her godson, Antonio O'Guinn of Arkansas; her brothers, Eric Benton (Renae) and Pradis Benton, Jr., both of Arkansas; her granddaughter, Nova Malone; several bonus grandchildren; her aunt, Wilbertine Johnson of Michigan; her uncle, Johnny Williams of Arkansas; her nephews, Jaylin Benton of South Korea and Devin Benton and Bacari Benton of Texas; her niece, Tearinee Terrell of Louisiana; her best friend of more than 40 years, Quiana Smith; and a host of other relatives and friends.

Camillia's legacy of faith, service, leadership, and love will continue to inspire all who were blessed to know her. Though she will be deeply missed, the lives she touched and the lessons she shared will continue to live on for generations to come.