Rowland "Rex" Thomas Benson

Rowland (Rex) Thomas Benson, 75 of Owenton passed away Saturday, March 7, 2015 at Christ Hospital from complications with a bacterial infection. Born March 1, 1940 in Waterbury, Conn., he was the son of the late Rowland and Adele Carey Benson and the loving husband of Nita Flo Ransdell Benson for 55 years. Rex (Rollie) graduated from Miami Edison High School in 1959 and married the love of his life on July 25. He then attended the University of Miami in Miami, Florida on a football scholarship. He was drafted by the Los Angeles Rams after college. Rex was a successful businessman and worked for Atlantic Richfield, Union 76 and owned and operated Ranco Oil Company in Miami Florida along with his wife for 20 years. He retired to Sweet Owen Kentucky where he spent many years collecting gas and oil advertising memorabilia. In his spare time he enjoyed playing cards, watching football, gardening and spending time with his family and his beloved dog Tenille. He was an advocate for animals and supported Owen County Friends of Animals. Rex received a heart transplant on August 20, 1991, which blessed his family with 23½ more years of life. Rex was active in Pleasant Ridge Baptist Church. Rex was a positive, loving and generous man who was adored by everyone. Survivors include, his daughter, Terri Mears of Sweet Owen; his son, Rex Benson of Dry Ridge; eight grandchildren, Joshua, Dillon, Dalton, Brandi Mears; Danielle Mears-Martini (Zac); Rex, Tyler, Chelsea Benson; two great-grandchildren, Lexi and Logan Martini. Visitation and funeral services will be held Saturday, March 14, 2015 at the Seminary Street location of McDonald & New Funeral Homes. Visitation will be from 10:00 a.m. – 1:00 p.m. with a funeral service at 1:00 p.m. Burial will take place after the funeral at the Owenton Cemetery. The Bro. David “Milkweed” Wotier will preside over the service. In lieu of flowers, please make memorial contributions to the Owen County Friends of Animals, P.O. Box 234, Owenton, Kentucky 40359.