H. S. Bence
H.S. Bence, 83 of Opelika, passed away peacefully at home January 17, 2018 in Opelika, Alabama with his
family by his side.
H.S. was born in Cragford, AL to Herman and Vista Bence, on April 3, 1934. He graduated from Mellow Valley High School in May 1952. He and Verlie Maydene “Dene” Williams married October 17, 1954. H. S. loved spending time with his family and friends both in Opelika, and in his childhood home of Clay County, which he often referred to as “God’s Country”. He also loved working in the garden, or among his blueberries, and he loved few things more than selling a car; something he continued to do to the age of 82. H.S. was an active member of FUMC Opelika where he faithfully attended services, was a member of the Poe-Cumbie Sunday School Class, served as an usher, and delighted in participating in Bible study classes that strengthened his faith.
H.S. is preceded in death by his parents, Herman and Vista (Blair) Bence; his brother, Reuben Bence, and his sisters: Thelma Brown, Eldna Todd, and Shirley Hamil, and a grandson, Jesse Graham Harrison.
He is survived by his loving and devoted wife of 63 years, Dene Bence; sister Gail (Kent) Carroll of Lanett, AL; daughters Linda (Bill) Dixon of Midland City, AL; Lania (Chris) Harrison and Laura (Marrell) Hartley of Opelika; grandchildren Matthew (Hannah) Dixon, Becca (Rob) Colosky, Abbie (Tyler) Davis, Judson (Presley) Harrison, Jordan Harrison, Benjamin “Bence” and Graham Hartley; great-grandchildren Gunnar and Sydney Grace Dixon; Jordan, Justin and William Colosky.
In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to FUMC Opelika, 702 Avenue A, Opelika, AL 36801. The family wishes to extend their gratitude to their family and friends for their support, to the staff and physicians associated with EAMC and the Cancer Center, and to the medical staff and caregivers of Compassus Hospice Care.
Visitation was held Saturday January 20, 2018 from 10:00-11:00 a.m. at FUMC Opelika in the fellowship Hall. Funeral services followed at 11:00 a.m. in the sanctuary, with Reverends Robin Wilson and Zenus Windsor officiating. Graveside services were held at 2:00 p.m. at Mount Gilead Community Church, County Rd. 79, Wadley, AL 36276.
Pallbearers were his grandsons: Matthew, Rob, Tyler, Judson, Bence, Jordan and Graham
Jeffcoat-Trant Funeral Home and Crematory directed.
www.jeffcoattrant.com