Donald Lewis Benton passed away July 18, 2017. He was born on December 29, 1936 to Freida Ivey and Lewis Benton. He lived with his grandparents, Mr. and Mrs. R. C. Ivey in Fabens. He leaves behind a wife, Betty Benton and 3 daughters, Penny Hilliard (Michael), Brenda Prestangen (Kyle), and Wray Jean Chavez (Adrian). His blended family includes Shawndi Hickman (Grant), Stacy Smith (Johnny), Shelly Hurley (Jared) and Scott Smith. Together they have 7 children, 9 grandchildren and 2 great grandchildren. Donny has two brothers, Rodger Benton (Arizona) and Leonard Benton (California). Donny has numerous cousins, nieces and nephews in the area. Donny went to school in Fabens and graduated from High School at New Mexico Military Institute. He attended Texas Tech and graduated from Sul Ross with two degrees, BS and ME. He also received a Master's Degree from Sam Houston State University. Donny served in the Army for 2 years. He was sent to Walter Reed Hospital in Washington D.C. where he worked in Bio Acoustic Research. Donny taught school and coached in Fort Hancock, Tornillo, Socorro, and Clint. He retired from Clint in 2001. Donny was a member of Masonic Lodge for over 50 years. He was Worshipful Master from 2006 to 2009. He was also a member of Grand Scottish Rite and the Grand Lodge of Texas. He enjoyed spending time at his lake house at Elephant Butte and was an avid fisherman. As a member of the Fort Bliss Rod and Gun Club, he also enjoyed hunting and shooting. In lieu of flowers please donate to or . A Memorial Service will be Friday, July 21, 2017 at 11:30am at St Luke United Methodist Church. Services entrusted to F.D.A. Martin Funeral Home East. www.funerariasdelangel.com/martin-east