James R. Benfield

James R. Benfield, Mr. “B” to his students, age 87, of Delphos, passed away Saturday June 27, 2026, at Mercy Health St. Rita’s surrounded by his loving family.

He was born July 17, 1938, in Van Wert to Julius M. and Sarah (Bell) Benfield who both proceeded him in death. On April 24, 1999, he married Ann L. (German) Benfield who survives in Delphos.

Jim is survived by a son, Ken (Kristine) Keirns of Land ‘O Lakes, FL; daughters, Cindi (Jay) Newcomb of Riverview, MI, Renee Tarp of Waterford, MI, and Jane (Craig Powell) Keirns of Forest, OH; brother-in-law, Tom (Ginny) German of Elida and sister-in-law, Susan Smith of Delphos. He is also survived by grandchildren, Erik (Rachel Meray) Newcomb, Jacob Newcomb, Jordan (Abbie) Keirns, Trevin (Ava De Amezola) Keirns, Colin Keirns, and Nolan Keirns; great-grandchildren, Vincent Meray, Brielle Meray, Carmen Keirns, and Hayes Keirns; and many nieces and nephews.

He was also preceded in death by a son, Brent Benfield.

Jim graduated from Van Wert High School before earning his bachelor's degree in Biology from Ohio Northern University. He built a successful career with Houghton Mifflin Publishing Company, where he spent many years in educational sales, sharing his passion for learning with schools and educators. After retirement, he found a new calling as a substitute teacher for local high school students, a role he truly loved. He cherished the opportunity to encourage young people, share his wisdom, and continue making a difference in the classroom.

Beyond his career, he embraced life with curiosity and enthusiasm. He was an avid gardener, a talented woodworker, and was well known for making unforgettable deep-dish pizza for family and friends. He loved to run, stay active, and was always eager to learn something new. A man of remarkable knowledge and quiet wisdom, he was the person family and friends turned to for advice, guidance, and encouragement.

He was also a proud member of the Delphos Eagles Aerie #471 and the Lima Elks Lodge #54, where he valued the friendships and sense of community those organizations provided.

His greatest legacy is not only the knowledge he possessed, but the kindness with which he shared it, the example he set, and the love he gave so freely. His quiet strength, generous spirit, and unwavering support will be deeply missed and forever remembered by all who were blessed to know him.

A funeral service will begin at 11:00 a.m. on Monday July 6, 2026, at Weber Funeral Home, 1840 E. 5th St, Delphos. Burial will follow in Resurrection Cemetery.

Visitation will be from 2:00-6:00 p.m. Sunday, July 5, 2026; and Monday 10:00-11:00 a.m., also at Weber Funeral Home. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the family to support local educational initiatives, reflecting Jim's lifelong dedication to learning, teaching, and students. Online condolences may be shared at www.weberfh.net.