Kenneth "Tump" Aden Benham

Kenneth "Tump" Aden Benham, born in Salina Oklahoma on March 4, 1938, left this world on September 16, 2024, in Vinita, Oklahoma, leaving behind a legacy woven from love, laughter, and a profound appreciation for life's simplest joys. Tump was a devoted husband to his beloved wife, Reba Willis, whom he married on September 6, 1958. Their enduring partnership was celebrated with the recent milestone of 66 years of marriage, a testament to their unyielding love and commitment to one another. A man of many passions, Tump dedicated a significant part of his life to working at the Lonestar Cement Plant, where his industrious nature left a mark on those who had the privilege to work alongside him. Outside of his career, Tump found joy in the lively world of team roping and rodeos, where his spirited personality shone brightly. He spent countless hours tinkering around the farm, creating lasting memories with his horses and finding peace in the company of nature. Family gatherings were a special highlight of Tump’s life, where his laughter and warmth filled the atmosphere, bringing everyone closer together. Attending his grandchildren's events brought him immense joy, as he took great pride in cheering them on and sharing in their accomplishments. The love between Tump and his family was a beautiful sight to behold, often expressed through heartwarming stories and shared experiences. Music was a cherished part of Tump’s life; he played the guitar with a passion that resonated deeply with those around him. He possessed a unique talent for writing beautiful poetry, capturing the emotions of life’s journey in words that will continue to inspire those who read them. Additionally, his adventurous spirit led him to coon hunting, a pastime that further enriched his life. Tump’s warm heart and infectious smile will be deeply missed by all who knew him. His family and friends feel the profound loss, yet they will carry forward the cherished memories and values he instilled in them. As we gather to celebrate Tump’s remarkable life, we remember a man who embraced each day with love and enthusiasm, a gentle soul who touched the hearts of many and whose legacy will forever live on in the lives he impacted. 

Visitation for Tump will be held on Thursday, September 19, 2024, from 6:00 PM to 8:00 PM at Shipman's Funeral & Cremation Service in Pryor, Oklahoma. Funeral services honoring his life will follow on Friday, September 20, 2024, at 11:00 AM at Salina First Baptist Church in Salina, Oklahoma with Pastor Steve Waechter officiating. Burial will follow in the Ross - Mayes Cemetery. To leave his family a message, please visit his Tribute Wall at www.shipmansfuneralhome.com. Arrangements are under the direction of Shipman's Funeral & Cremation Service. 

Tump is survived by his wife, Reba Benham of the home; daughter, Jana Wyckoff and husband Gary of Salina, Oklahoma; grandchildren, Casey Wyckoff and wife Megan of Salina, Oklahoma and Whitni Wyckoff and fiancé Rick Miller of Wagoner, Oklahoma and Amy Wyckoff of Bartlesville, Oklahoma; 2 great grandchildren, Jhett Wyckoff and Wyatt Wyckoff; and many other relatives and friends. He is preceded in death by his parents, Mryph and Betha (Phelan) Benham; 2 brothers, JD Benham and Herald Benham; and great grandson, Raylen Wyckoff.