David O. Benner

A memorial service celebrating the life of David Benner, of Stone Mountain, Georgia will be held at 1pm on Saturday, June 4th 2016 at Living Grace Lutheran Church. David died on May 16, 2016. Born on May 5, 1942 in Harrisburg, Pennsylvania he is survived by sister Diane and husband Alan Shaddinger; brother Jonathan and wife Bonnie Benner; his daughter Veronica and husband Bill Rumble; daughter Cindy and husband Jerry Phillips; son Franklin and wife Sheree Benner; four grandchildren, two great-grandsons, and many loving nieces, nephews and extended family members.
An active member of Living Grace, David dedicated 40 years of service as a lay minster, church council member, educational and Sunday school leader, and preached when called upon. He was a devoted volunteer and coordinator over 20 years for Shearith Israel Shelter for Homeless Women, Rebecca's Tent, where he recently served as board chair. He served the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America as a member of the Board of the Deaconess Community and the Committee of Vocation and Education.
A Thiel College graduate 1964 and in 1965, David earned a master's degree in Public Administration from Syracuse University. In 2010, he retired as Executive Vice President of Operations for the Georgia Student Finance Commission. In addition to his professional accomplishments, he was a model train enthusiast and played French horn in the Savannah and Charleston symphonies.
David particularly enjoyed celebrating special occasions with family and friends at his home. He was fondly known as Poppy and was truly the patriarch of the family. His generosity shined as an example of integrity, reason, and discipleship. He built his life on the foundation of God's word and in doing so became a rock for all that knew him.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Living Grace Lutheran Church 1812 Cooledge Road, Tucker, GA 30084 or Rebeccastent.org.
Condolences may be expressed online at www.asturner.com.


Funeral Home:
A. S. Turner & Sons
2773 North Decatur Road
Decatur, GA
30033