Lt. Col. (Ret USAF) Eugene F. Bensey joined his heavenly father on February 2, 2012. He was born in Coeburn, Virginia to the late Frank Nelson Bensey and Blanche Vivian Hart Bensey on March 8, 1921. He is survived by his wife of 67 years, Mary S. Bensey. Eugene and Mary had three children: Sue Bensey Riley, Mary Bensey Thomas (husband James Thomas), and David Eugene Bensey (wife Pamela). He has four grandchildren, James Whitcomb Riley III, Susan Elizabeth Riley, Claudia Elizabeth Thomas, and Amanda Jean Thomas. Eugene is survived by one sister, Betty Cummings of Tennessee who is the last of the seven siblings. He is also survived by numerous nieces, nephews, and other extended family members.

Eugene was studying engineering at the University of West Virginia in 1942 when he was called to serve in the military during WWII. He completed pilots school before entering the service and ultimately stayed with the Air Force until his retirement in March 1965. He flew as a radar navigator for the B-24, 29, 50, 47, and 52s including combat missions. During his career in the Air Force, he received numerous awards including the Distinguished Flying Cross. Following his exemplary career in the Air Force, Eugene also worked as a Federal employee and retired at Tinker AFB for a second time in his life.

Eugene was active in the American Legion and served as an officer for several years. Eugene was a Mason, a golfer, and an avid gardener. He also served as an officer in his neighborhood Association helping to organize the neighborhood's first association. Eugene was devoted husband, father, and grandfather and doted on his grandchildren. He worked with his grandson and the Boy Scouts for numerous years. Having been an Eagle Scout, he encouraged his grandson and other young boys to aspire to be the best they could be.

Following a private burial in the Yukon Cemetery, a public memorial service was held Monday Feb 6 at 11AM in the United Methodist Church of the Good Shepherd in Yukon. Friends may sign our online guest book at www.smith-turnermortuary.com. Services were under the direction of Smith & Turner Mortuary, Yukon.