Jack "J.D." Benson

Jackie Dale Benson, known by many as J.D., age 84, of Woodbine, passed away peacefully on May 19, 2026 in Fort Worth with his family by his side.

J.D. was born January 12, 1942 in Arkansas. He was raised in Louisiana and eventually moved to Fort Worth. He graduated high school and then attended college.

J.D. enlisted in the U.S. Navy and served for two years. He then went to work for the Santa Fe Railroad, where he would spend most of his career, retiring as a conductor following 37 years of employment.

J.D. loved his family and friends dearly, and treasured his time spent with them. He married Donna Miller on July 17, 2017 in Las Vegas, NV. He loved traveling, going on cruises, visiting casinos, playing golf, watching Westerns in his favorite recliner, and keeping up with populations of cities and farm-to-market roads.

J.D. also looked forward to his railroader’s luncheon on the first Thursday of every month that he rarely missed. He enjoyed conversations with his high school friend in Florida, his railroad buddy, Bill Duke, and his brother-in-law, Daitis.

Survivors include: wife Donna Benson of Woodbine; son Ronald Benson of Whitesboro; son Jason Benson and wife Sabrina of Era; grandchildren: Brittany Benson, Dalton Benson, Hollie Benson, Tyler Benson, Dillon Reasor, Sara Reyes, Adrian Avalos Jr., Steven Trout, Dustin Trout, and Aiden Hudson; and numerous great-grandchildren, nieces, and nephews.

J.D. was preceded in death by: his father; mother Hazel Cannon; stepfather Cecil Screws; and sister Pat Grigsby.

A memorial service is scheduled for Saturday, June 13, 2026, beginning at 2:00 p.m., at Geo. J. Carroll & Son Funeral Home, Gainesville.