​C l a s s  o f  1 9 5 8

​​​​​​​​​​​Russell High School​

March 5, 1940 - September 25, 2018

Bennie Leeroy Stilley

Bennie “Ben” Leeroy Stilley, 78, of Fort Worth, Texas, passed away September 25, 2018.

Ben was born to Roy Lonzo Stilley and Lillian Elizabeth Stilley on March 5, 1940, in New Orleans, Louisiana. He graduated from Russell High School, East Point, Georgia in 1957.He joined the United States Marine Corp in July 1957 where he was stationed at 8th & I, as a member of HMX1.  Lance Corporal Stilley served his country as a member of the Presidential Bodyguard for 3 years, then went on to work as a self-employed carpenter and bus driver in the entertainment industry, having the pleasure of driving for Red Steagall, Reba McEntire, and many others.

When he wasn’t working, Ben enjoyed spending his time fishing, telling stories, and serving his community.  He was an endowed member of the Azle Masonic Lodge #601, as well as the Eureka Masonic Lodge #371 of Springtown, where he served as Master from 1999-2000.

He is survived by his wife Lynda (Stedman) Stilley and her two daughters Koko Swindell (Jeff) and Kristine Flournoy (Lee). He leaves as his legacy two children; Lee Stilley (Marie) and Rebecca Mace (Jeff), and one grandchild; Christopher Mace (Kyndal).  He also leaves to cherish his memory three siblings; Tommy Crumbley, Charles Crumbley, and Jimmy Crumbley.

He was preceded in death by David Crumbley (Brother) and John Meadows (Brother).

A visitation is scheduled for Sunday, September 30th, 6-8pm at White’s Funeral Chapel in Springtown, Texas. A funeral service is scheduled for Monday, October 1st, beginning at 1pm also at White’s Funeral Chapel after which an interment ceremony will be held at Springtown Cemetery. A reception will follow at the home of his daughter Rebecca Mace. In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to the Shriner’s Hospitals for Children at www.shrinershospitalsforchildren.org.

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