FRANKLIN COUNTY – Lyman L. Benns Jr. was born on March 6, 1947, in Benton, IL. He went to spend eternity with his Savior and the love of his life, Jenifer Jane Sneddon Benns, on November 13, 2025, in Benton, IL. Although he spent some time growing up on the south side of Chicago, he spent most of his life in West City, IL, with his parents and siblings. He married Jenifer on June 8, 1969.
He joined the Marines in 1966 and served in the Vietnam War. After leaving the Marines, he moved his young family to Texas, where he worked in a paper mill. He later returned to Southern Illinois and began his career in the coal mines. He worked tirelessly to support his family. He and his wife owned and operated Printer’s Inc. for 16 years.
He was a charter member of Christ’s View Christian Church in Christopher, IL, and was among the men who helped build the church. Through the years, he served as both an Elder and a Deacon. He enjoyed preaching, teaching, and leading Sunday School for the teens. He also helped maintain the building and grounds and was always willing to lend a hand wherever needed.
He remained active in his church and community up to the day he died. He was quick to help anyone in need, generous with his time and talents, and known for his humor and practical jokes. While wintering in Texas, he gave church announcements each Sunday—something the congregation loved, often saying, “He’s the only person who can make the announcements funny.” He also enjoyed playing pickleball and was often heard saying, “Keep your eye on the ball.”
His best times were spent with the love of his life, Jenifer. They enjoyed traveling, ballroom dancing, riding in their convertible, spending time with friends and family, and simply being together. Their love was truly one of a kind.
His greatest accomplishment was his family and the love he gave so freely. He loved deeply and wanted the very best for those he cared for. Beyond his family, he worked passionately for his Lord and Savior. He loved Jesus and was always willing to share that love. He hoped to see all his family and friends join him in meeting Jesus someday.
He was preceded in death by his wife, Jenifer Sneddon Benns; his mother, Margaret Smith Benns; his father, Lyman L. Benns, Sr.; father-in-law, David Lewis; mother-in-law, Uneeda Lewis; brother, Steve Benns; brothers-in-law, James Sneddon and George Lewis; and sisters-in-law, Nellie Lewis and Mikkell Geanne Sneddon.
Surviving family includes his children: Julie Benns (Michael) Greisz and Eric Benns; siblings: James Benns (Beth), Dennis Benns (Valerie), Mike Benns, and Mary Anne Benns Kline; grandchildren: Caleb Garascia (Kayela Thomas), Logan Gayer, Ashlei Kraemer (Andrew), Anna Greisz, Thomas Greisz, Vanessa Greisz, Skyler Greisz, Isaac Benns, Madison Benns, and Gabriella Benns; and one great-grandchild, Evan Garascia, who was a bright light in his life. He also leaves behind many nieces, nephews, great-nieces, great-nephews, and cousin, David Garvin (Brenda).
Visitation will be held at Morton & Johnston Funeral Home in Benton, IL. Family visitation will be Tuesday, November 18, 2025, at 4:00 p.m. Friends may visit Tuesday, November 18, from 5:00–7:00 p.m., and again on Wednesday, November 19, 2025, at 9:00 a.m. The funeral service will begin at 10:00 a.m. He will be laid to rest at Benton Cemetery.
For more information or to send online condolences, please visit www.mortonjohnstonfuneralhome.com.