Celebrating the Life of Paul Edward “EIGHT” Benton

Paul Edward “EIGHT” Benton

January 15, 1969 – April 29, 2026

Paul Edward Benton, affectionately known to his friends, family, and teammates as “EIGHT,” passed away on April 29, 2026, leaving behind a legacy of service, athletic passion, and an unwavering devotion to those he loved.

A Life of Purpose and Service

Paul was a man who lived with a singular, noble mission: to see a world without cancer. He dedicated his life to finding a cure, turning his personal drive into a community-wide movement. Nowhere was this more evident than on the softball diamond. As a Coach, Certified Baller, and Teammate, Paul used the game he loved as a platform to touch lives, spreading hope, encouragement, confidence, love and raising awareness with every inning played. To the softball community, he was more than just a player; he was a heartbeat of inspiration, constantly striving to bring the best out of everyone and bring the world one step closer to a cure.

A Devoted Family Man

Above all his titles—Hardworker, Man of Service, Community Leader—Paul’s most cherished role was that of a Dad. His hustle and his heart were dedicated entirely to his children, Ian Paul Benton (28) and Ava Faith Benton (10). Everything Paul did was for them. He was a constant, loving presence in their lives, teaching them through his actions that the greatest strength lies in devotion and reliability.

Paul also leaves behind his loving mother, Annette Benton; his father, Paul Benton Jr; his brother, Jemol Lamont Benton, his stepmother, Regina Benton, his soulmate Autumn Barkhuff and her daughter, Peightyn Cole.

A Legacy of Kindness

Paul lived by a simple yet profound mantra: “It doesn’t take much effort to be kind.” He moved through the world spreading faith and love, proving that even small gestures can create a lasting impact. His presence was a reminder that hope is a choice we make every day.

Celebration of Life Services

The family invites all who knew and loved Paul to join them in celebrating a life well-lived.

• Date:Thursday, May 7th, 2026
• Time:1:00 PM – 3:00 PM
• Location:

Tim Stewart Funeral Home

300 Simonton Rd SW

Lawrenceville, GA 30045

Tributes and Memorials

For those wishing to send flowers, the family encourages the use of:

Loganville Flower Basket

189 CS Floyd Rd, Loganville, GA 30052

770-608-8698

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to support Paul’s children or to continue his lifelong fight against cancer:

• GoFundMe for Ian and Ava Benton: https://gofund.me/cc67e374b
• Susan G. Komen Breast Cancer Foundation:Donate Here (https://www.komen.org/how-to-help/donate/?form=fy27_certainteed_may2x&s_src=komen.org&s_subsrc=donate_page_donate_now_link)

The Family sends their sincere gratitude to all who have supported them during this difficult time.

Georgia Cremation Duluth is assisting the family with arrangements.