Benny Joe Gonzales, age 74, of Harrison, Arkansas, passed away Wednesday, December 6, 2023 at Hillcrest Nursing Home.

The son of John and Modest Kate (Cooper) Gonzales was born February 8, 1949 in Bellmont, Arizona. He was a member of Union Baptist Church and a Harrison resident since moving here at age 13.

Benny worked at Acme Uniform Rental for 19 1/2 years.  He enjoyed watching westerns and football, going fishing, and he was an avid Elvis Presley fan. Benny was a loving husband and loved his grandkids.  He treasured time he was able to spend watching them. You always knew where you stood with Benny, and he gave tough love with a soft touch.

He was preceded in death by his parents; two brothers, Jerry and Carl Gonzales, and a sister, Annette Simmons.

Benny is survived by his wife of 55 years, Cheryl of the home; three children, Lonny Gonzales and Jason (Becky) Gonzales both of Harrison, and Jonethan Gonzales of Anna, TX; two brothers, Anthony (Diane) Gonzales of Harrison, Dennis Gonzales of Springfield, MO; his sister, Brenda (Morgan) McNeil of Harrison; three grandchildren, Andy (Phylicia) Gonzales of St. Joe, Brittany Gonzales of Harrison, and Lilly Gonzales of Anna, TX; one great granddaughter, Ashlynn Daniels; a brother-in-law, Rickey (Kelly) Dearing of Plainview, AR; and a host of nieces, nephews, extended family and friends.

The family wants to extend a heartfelt thank you to the nurses and staff of Hillcrest Nursing Home for the loving care Benny received the last 9 months.

Graveside service will be held Friday, December 8 (2023) at 1:00 PM at Elmwood Cemetery with Pastor Bill Melton officiating. Visitation will be private for the family.

Pallbearers are Andy Gonzales, Morgan McNeil, Anthony Gonzales, Howard Hammer, Mike McCutcheon, and Rickey Dearing.

Honorary Pallbearers are Kyle Keller, Rod Branch, and Carl Edwards.

Memorial donations can be made to Elmwood Cemetery Fund, PO Box 3345, Harrison, AR, 72602.

Arrangements under the direction of Coffman Funeral Home of Harrison. On-line condolences can be left at www.coffmanfh.com.