Clifton “Cliff” David Benson, 40, of Ocilla, Georgia, died Wednesday, September 3, 2025, at Dorminy Medical Center in Fitzgerald, Georgia.
Memorial services will be held 2 PM, Tuesday, September 9, 2025, at The Ocilla Methodist Church in Ocilla, Georgia, with the Rev. Jay Roberson officiating and Gunnar Willingham presenting the eulogy. The family will receive friends one hour prior to the service in the church sanctuary.
Cliff was born June 18, 1985, in Tifton, Georgia, to Dianne Norton Cleghorn, and the late David James Benson. He was a 2003 graduate of Irwin County High School and won the State Championship in Wrestling that same year. He was a great athlete and enjoyed watching Georgia Football. Cliff was a sub-contractor by trade installing floors. He played a major part in organizing the Mercy’s Edge Prayer group, which he named. Cliff was known to do anything for anyone. He loved his family with all his heart. His greatest joy was his nieces and nephews. He enjoyed spending time with them and attending all of their sporting events.
He is survived by his mother and step father, Dianne Cleghorn & Johnny of Ocilla; a sister, Jodi Willingham & Justin of Ocilla; nieces and nephews: Gunnar Willingham, Ellie Willingham and Gracelynn Willingham; grandfather, John Norton; aunt & uncle: Jo Windom & John; cousins: Dylan Windom and Mathis Anne Windom; uncles: Edwin Benson and Tommy & Teresa Benson; step sisters: Michelle Seagroves & Michael, Misty Little, and Nicole Smith & Justin; step nieces and nephews: Logan Seagroves, Marina Maples, Maddison Warren, and Cole Smith. In addition to his father, he was preceded in death by grandparents: Drama Norton, Cecil Benson and Deila Benson.
The family suggests those desiring to send memorials may send them to The Anchorage, Inc., 162 Hampton Ln. Leesburg, GA 31763.
Paulk Funeral Home, Ocilla, is in charge of arrangements.