George Ernest Benya, 73, passed away on August 2, 2026 in Bridgeport, WV after a lengthy illness. He was born in Detroit, Michigan, on August 27, 1952, the son of the late Robert James and Barbara Jean (Ray) Benya.
Above all, George cherished his family. He was preceded in death by his parents; his infant son, George Ernest Benya, Jr.; and his infant grandsons, Dylan Anthony Smith and Wyatt Anthony Smith.
He was a graduate of North Farmington High School and later earned a Bachelor of Science in Education from the University of Evansville in 1979, where he was a proud member of the Sigma Phi Epsilon Fraternity.
George honorably served his country as a Hospital Corpsman in the United States Navy and continued his service in the United States Navy Reserves. Following his military service, he dedicated his career to law enforcement. He began with the Newburgh Police Department in Indiana in 1979 before serving with the St. Charles County Sheriff’s Department in Missouri. Throughout his distinguished career, George completed advanced training at the Indiana Law Enforcement Academy, the St. Charles County Law Enforcement Training Center, and the Federal Law Enforcement Training Center in Glynco, Georgia. He later served with the United States Marshals Service, with assignments in San Francisco, California, and Wilmington, North Carolina, before concluding his career in private security.
George was a proud patriot and a steadfast supporter of the Second Amendment. He was an avid gun collector, enjoyed muscle cars, and appreciated the friendships and experiences that came from the many places he called home throughout his life, including Michigan, Indiana, Missouri, California, North Carolina, and West Virginia.
Those wishing to honor his life are invited to share condolences and memories at www.davisfuneralhomewv.com. Davis Funeral Home and Onsite Crematory is honored to serve the Benya family during this difficult time
