The Reverend James “Jim” Gordon Benbrook

The Reverend James “Jim” Gordon Benbrook was born on August 20, 1948, in Heber Springs, AR, and entered eternal rest peacefully at his home in Bernice, LA.

Jim was a husband, father, brother, Veteran, priest, and friend. He proudly served his country with the U.S. Army in the 101st Airborne Division during the Vietnam War. While serving, he specialized as an Image Interpreter. For his service, he was awarded numerous commendations, including the National Defense Service Medal, Vietnam Service Medal with four Bronze Service Stars, Republic of Vietnam Campaign Medal, Air Medal, Army Commendation Medal with Oak Leaf Cluster, Good Conduct Medal, and Expert Rifle designation.

After his military service, Jim built a life rooted in hard work, family, and faith before answering his call to ordained ministry. He raised his family, worked diligently, and shared his love of music generously, always remaining deeply engaged with his church and community. Known for his humor, warmth, and openness, he never met a stranger. His music became a source of joy, healing, and fellowship to all who heard it. 

In time, Jim pursued his lifelong call to the priesthood. He attended the University of the South’s School of Theology at Sewanee, graduating in 2005, and was ordained in the Diocese of Western Louisiana. He served faithfully as an Episcopalian priest, guiding many in their faith journeys and offering compassion and counsel to those in need.

He is preceded in death by his father, Maurice Gordon Benbrook, his mother, Bonnie Anita Benbrook Norton, and his sister, Kimberly Mary Jo Kittler. 

He is survived by his wife, Annette O’Brien Benbrook, his sister, Marsha Benbrook Holeyfield (Richard), his children, Molly Benbrook Ducote (Andrew), Concetta Ferguson (Bill), and Matthew Shane Benbrook, and his beloved grandchildren, Clark and June Ducote, Laura Shea, Elizabeth, Liam, and Aaron Ferguson. Jim will be remembered as a devoted priest, a loving father and grandfather, and a man of faith and kindness whose presence enriched all who knew him.

We will gather to celebrate Jim’s life on Saturday, August 30 at St. Mark’s Episcopal Cathedral in Shreveport, LA.
Visitation begins at 9:00 AM, and the service will follow at 11:00 AM.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Kairos Prison Ministry (https://givebutter.com/kairosprisonministry).