Larry Benning's Obituary
Larry "Baby" Benning, 74, of Chattanooga, passed away Monday, March 25, 2024, after bravely battling multiple ailments. Larry's journey through life was marked by an unwavering spirit, kindness, and an enduring commitment to those he held dear. He was born January 27, 1950, to proud and loving parents, Rufus Benning, Sr. and Mary E. Benning in Chattanooga, Tennessee. A beloved father, brother, and friend, he touched the hearts of countless individuals with his warmth, generosity, and sense of humor. Larry's style and commanding presence illuminated every room he entered, leaving a lasting impression on all who had the privilege of knowing him. After graduating from Howard High School in 1967, Larry was formerly married to Phyllis Benning, the mother of his children. He landed his first job as a machine operator at Dupont, where he remained a devoted employee for more than 20 years. His passion for work was evident in everything he did and his focus and resilience will be remembered for years to come. Larry was raised under Christian values. He was baptized at a young age and he was a long-standing member of St Mary Baptist Church. Larry found joy in simple pleasures. As the owner of Larry’s Lounge, he was happiest when seeing people having a good time. He loved music, his hats, and cars, as can be seen by the purchase of his first car, a 56’ Chevy which he affectionately called “Spot”. But above all else, he absolutely loved making money! He instilled in many, life’s lessons surrounding his ability to “make a dollar out of 15 cents”, and he always made sure to give Mum and Rufus their cut! Larry was preceded in death by his parents, Rufus Sr. and Mary E. Benning; his son, Michael Benning; brother, DeWayne Benning; three nephews, Randall “Yogi” Hamler, Terrance Patton, and Antonio Few; aunts, Dorothy Smith, Bonnie Sparks, Lizzie Mayfield, Willie B. Benning, and Christine Benning; and two uncles, Edward and Alonzo Benning. Survivors include his beloved son, David (Tia) Benning; seven loving grandchildren, Domenique Marie Roberts, Alexander Boney, Michael Benning Jr., Mariah Benning, Carmen Taylor, Kyrah Benning, and Jada Benning; loving and devoted brothers, Rufus (Annie Bell) Benning and Mahood Abdullah; loving and devoted sisters, Linda Benning and Brenda Davis; beloved nieces, Adriane (Steve) Harris, Sonja Benning, Errika “Tenderlove” Benning, India Benning, Monica “Babygirl” Davis, Tamieka (Darrell) Hinton, Shana Benning, Yolanda Benning, Dawanda Benning, Monika Benning, and Tasha Benning; loving nephews, Timothy Lawrence, Charles Davis “Ba Boy”, and Stacy (Sonya) Anderson; loving and devoted cousins, Charles “Remike” Smith, Arletra Bolden, Darryl Smith, Jerry Smith; and a host of great-nieces, great-nephews, cousins, and the Lovelace Family; devoted friends left to cherish his memories are Sandra Tremble, Bernard Readus, Holland Jones, Red Sims, Robert Stubberfield, James Keith, and Donell Talley. Though Larry's physical presence may be gone, his spirit will continue to live on in the hearts of all who knew and loved him. His character of love, kindness, and compassion will forever serve as a guiding light, inspiring us to live our lives with purpose and to cherish every precious moment. Larry leaves behind a legacy of love and a lifetime of cherished memories. Larry will lie-in-state on Tuesday, April 2, 2024, at 9 a.m. at Taylor Funeral Home. Funeral service will follow at 12 noon in the chapel. Burial will be in Forest Hills Cemetery.
DIRECTIONS FOR LIVE STREAM:
Click on the link below to view the service.
https://view.oneroomstreaming.com/index.php?data=MTcxMTk2MjczNDEzMjY1OTEmb25lcm9vbS1lbWFpbCZpbnZpdGF0aW9uX2NvcHlfbGluaw==
What’s your fondest memory of Larry?
What’s a lesson you learned from Larry?
Share a story where Larry's kindness touched your heart.
Describe a day with Larry you’ll never forget.
How did Larry make you smile?
