James Benton Hayman passed away peacefully at home in Yazoo City on June 27, 2024 following a prolonged illness. Born in Prentiss, MS, he was the son of the late John William Hayman and Annie Lou Hayman. He was also predeceased by his brother, George Truett Hayman.
Benton worked as a draftsman and a soil conservationist for the State of Mississippi before beginning his 33-year career as a computer programmer and senior technology specialist at Mississippi Chemical Corporation.
Benton spent over 20 years as a leader for the Boy Scouts of America and received the Silver Beaver Award in recognition of outstanding service to the Andrew Jackson Council. As an active member of First Baptist Church of Yazoo City, Benton served as deacon, Sunday School teacher, Youth Leader, church bus driver, and in the TV ministry. He also volunteered with Gideons International for many years.
Benton is survived by his wife of 63 years, Mary McCrory Hayman, his children Dawn Ramsey (Danny Carter) of Biloxi, Gail Stovall (James “Scoot”) of Copper Hill, VA, Russ Hayman (Sara) of Johnson City, TN, Sherry Williams (Joe) of Madison, Jason Hayman (Kari) of Rock Springs, CO; grandchildren Jamin Stovall (Brooke), Brady Stovall (Caroline), Jordan Stovall, Davis Hayman, Lee Williams, Joseph Williams, Cooper Williams, Jonas Hayman, Sadie Hayman, Ivy Hayman, Eden Hayman; 4 great grandchildren (Riley, Annie, Charlotte, and Maggie). Benton is also survived by brothers Ken Hayman (Brenda) of Hattiesburg and Clinton Hayman (Stephanie) of Prentiss.
Visitation will be held Monday, July 1 from 9:30-11:00 am at First Baptist Church of Yazoo City. The Funeral Service will begin at 11:00. Interment will follow the service at Glenwood Cemetery.
In lieu of flowers, memorial contribution may be made to First Baptist Church of Yazoo City or to Gideons International.
