US Army (Ret) Chief Warrant Officer Dana “Gene” Benson, 80, passed away on February 27, 2024, in Kinston, NC.

Funeral Services will be conducted Wednesday, March 20, 2024, at 11am at Edwards Funeral Home. The family will receive friends one hour prior to the service. A burial will follow at 2pm at Eastern Carolina State Veterans Cemetery, 164 Longs Plant Farm Road, Goldsboro, NC.

Born on May 13, 1943, in Lumberton, North Carolina. He was the beloved son of William "Bill" and Frances Benson. Gene grew up in Reidsville, North Carolina, where he attended school, was a Boy Scout and developed a love for nature and animals.

As a young man, Gene had a paper route, and his faithful dog, Jan, accompanied him on his bicycle as he delivered newspapers to the community. This early responsibility instilled a strong work ethic and a sense of companionship with his loyal four-legged friend.

At the age of 18, Gene joined the United States Navy, embarking on a journey of service and adventure. It was during his four years of naval service that he met Edris. They married in May of 1965 in San Diego, California where he was stationed at Miramar Naval Air Station. Together, they were blessed with three children: Shannon, Robert, and Brandon.

Gene's passion for aviation and helicopters led him to pursue a career in the military. In 1969, he joined the United States Army, where his love for flying and being a pilot flourished. Gene dedicated 20 years of his life to military service, retiring in 1982 while stationed at Fort Lewis, Washington. His exceptional skills and dedication as a helicopter pilot were utilized by the Bureau of Land Management in Alaska for several years.

In 1985, Gene returned to his beloved North Carolina, where he found pilot positions with Boddie-Noell Enterprises and the North Carolina Forest Service. Flying continued to be a significant part of his life, and he cherished every moment in the sky. Some could say that flying was the love of his life.

Gene is survived by his children, Shannon and her husband, John Larson, of Chaska, Minnesota; Robert and his wife, Laura Benson, of Olympia, Washington; and Brandon Benson of Ephrata, Washington. Genes's memory will forever be cherished by his grandchildren, Samantha, (Dalton) Shiflett, Tyler, (Lauren) Larson, Cassie, (Luke) Hanson, and Claire Benson, as well as his great-grandchildren, Kameron, Charlotte, and Braxton. Gene is also survived by his sister, Ann Benson, and cousin, Jay Brande, both of Reidsville.

Gene is preceded in death by his parents, his brother Eric and his grandson, Trandon.

Gene's kind spirit, dedication to his country, and his passion for flying will be deeply missed by all who had the privilege of knowing him. May his soul rest in eternal peace.

Arrangements made by Edwards Funeral Home & Cremations. Online condolences may be expressed at www.edwardsfhc.com.