Douglas James Benson, age 69, of Gurdon, passed from this life on Saturday, September 11, 2021 at Wadley Regional Medical Center in Hope.  He was born on January 11, 1952 in Gurdon, the son of the late Arthur Joe and Gladys Murphy Benson.  Doug served in the Army National Guard and was a member of Beech Street Baptist Church.  He was employed as a diesel mechanic for Suttle Equipment, Beirne Anthony Timberlands and was employed by many logging companies for over forty-two years.  Doug was a volunteer fireman for Gurdon Fire Dept. for over twenty-five years.  He enjoyed hunting, fishing, motorcycles and working on lawnmowers.  In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his sister, Linda Beene.

Doug is survived by his wife, Mary Kay McNeil Benson of Gurdon, his son, Daniel Benson (Alicia) of Arkadelphia, his daughter, Melanie Hendrix (Keith) of San Diego, two brothers, Donald Benson of Gurdon and David Benson (Sheila) of Russellville and two grandchildren, Jace and Jaxton Benson.

Funeral services will be held at 10:00 AM on Saturday, September 18, 2021 at Beech Street Baptist Church with Bro. David Graves officiating.  Interment will be in Rose Hedge Cemetery.

Visitation will be from 6:00 to 8:00 PM on Friday at Welch Funeral Home in Arkadelphia.

Final arrangements are entrusted to The Welch Funeral Home of Arkadelphia.  Visit www.welchfh.net to sign the online guestbook.