James Benefiel

James Robert “Jim/Jimi/Benny” Benefiel, 64, of Bringhurst, passed away unexpectedly on Wednesday, May 21, 2025, at his residence. He was born on March 3, 1961, in Logansport, the son of Emmie (Raymon) Benefiel and Howard “Buddy” (Ozeller) Whitehead. On June 29, 1991, he married Deena Kinzie, and she survives.

James was a graduate of Carroll High School, class of 1979. He later attended Ivy Tech Community College. James has been employed by SAYCO, Pioneer Seeds, Essex, Peters-Revington, Landis & Gyr, and finally, Alcoa/Arconic for the last 28 years. He was a member of the United Steelworkers Union Local 115. James was baptized into the Southern Baptist Church as a young man. In his free time, he was an avid sports fan, reader, and poker player. He also enjoyed traveling to his family’s hometown in Lamar County, Alabama, the Smokey Mountains, and Lake Michigan. James will be remembered for his unique laugh that brightened the spirits of those around him.

Along with his wife of 33 years, James is survived by his children, Courtney of West Lafayette and Cameron of Bringhurst, his sister Janice of Lafayette, and several nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his parents and siblings, Emily “Dean,” Billy, Charles, and Shirley.

A family celebration of life will be held at a later date. Day & Genda Funeral Home ~ Reinke Chapel is assisting with the arrangements. Memorial contributions may be made in James’s honor to Lafayette Urban Ministry Emergency Shelter.Messages of condolence may be left at www.dayandgenda.com.