On February 4, 2026, Benjamin Burton Slayton, affectionately known as “Benny,” passed away at the age of 86 in his home in Cullman County, Alabama. Born on February 13, 1939, in Tulane, California, Benny’s life was marked by service, family, and community involvement.
Benny served in the United States Army, where he was stationed in Germany. After his military service, he married his beloved wife, Patsy Slayton, and together they built a family. Most of Benny’s career was spent in Hanford, California, where he dedicated many years to Pirelli Tire Company before retiring. In 2008, the couple relocated to Cullman County, where Benny embraced the local lifestyle.
During his years in Alabama, Benny developed a passion for hunting and fishing. He was also an avid supporter of Alabama football and enjoyed baking banana bread, a favorite pastime that he shared with family and friends. His commitment to service continued after retirement, as he became an active member of DAV Chapter 101 in Cullman.
Benny is survived by his daughters, Gayla Chapman and her husband Glen Chapman of Grover Beach, California, and Tammy Franks and her husband Neville Franks of Cullman County, Alabama. He is also mourned by his siblings, including sisters Mary Henderson and Bobby Lee Slayton, and brothers Gerald Slayton and Lucky Slayton. Benny’s legacy continues through his grandchildren: Blake Slayton, Blaine Slayton, Sarah Renner, Rebecca Killahuss, Jessica Chapman, Hannah Chapman, Deanna Chapman, Shoelynn Chapman, Trista Franks, Keighley Bryant, and Liberty Franks, as well as ten great-grandchildren and numerous nieces and nephews.
Benny was preceded in death by his wife, Patsy Slayton, his son, Jimmy Slayton, and two sisters, Jeanette Long and Johnny Roe Lallement.
Family and friends are invited to celebrate Benny’s life on February 21, 2026, at noon at the VFW building located at 112 Veterans Drive, SW, Cullman, AL 35055. This gathering will honor Benny’s contributions to his family and community, reflecting the love and joy he brought to those around him.
