Wilber “Bill” Steve Benjamin, age 102, passed away on April 6, 2026, in Callaway, Nebraska.

Bill was born on August 11, 1923, in Hubbell, Nebraska, to Dorothy and George Benjamin.

He enlisted in the United States Army in June of 1942 and proudly served his country during World War II. After returning home, Bill went to work for the railroad loading boxcars. It was during this time that he met the love of his life, Jean. From the moment they met, his life was forever changed. Together, they built a life rooted in love, devotion, and family. They raised two children, Rick and Tammy, and in 1964, moved to Lexington to help Jean’s father on the family farm, where they continued to grow their lives side by side.

Bill’s greatest joy in life was always his family, especially the life he shared with Jean. Whether working hard on the farm or simply sitting together, he treasured every moment with her. Even in the simplest routines, like their Friday afternoon Dairy Queen dates, their love for each other was clear. She was his partner in everything, and that love remained a guiding presence in his life.

He found happiness in life’s simple pleasures: tending to his garden and flower beds, going for walks, and spending time outdoors. In his earlier farming years, he raised Appaloosas and rode with the Plum Creekers on his paint horse, Tony. In later years, he was just as content sitting on the patio, taking in the view, especially when surrounded by those he loved.

Bill’s love extended deeply to his children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren, who were the pride and joy of his life. He had a playful spirit and a wonderful sense of humor, always teasing and joking, and he had a special way of making everyone feel welcomed, valued, and loved. Whether it was a game of checkers with the grandkids or a round of bingo at the care home, he cherished every moment spent together. The memories he created with his family will be treasured for generations.

If you asked him, “What’s up?” he would smile and reply, “About 5’8” — a simple joke that never failed to bring a smile.

Bill will be remembered most for the deep and steady love he had for his family and for Jean. His life was a testament to devotion, kindness, and the quiet strength of a man who put those he loved above all else. We can only imagine the joyful reunion as he was welcomed into heaven by Jean, with a loving smile and perhaps a lighthearted “where’ve you been?”. His legacy lives on in the family he cherished so deeply, and in the love that will continue to carry them forward. He will be greatly missed.

Bill was preceded in death by his parents Dorothy and George Benjamin, brothers Ike, Ernie, and George, sister Ella, his loving wife Jean, and grandson Chase.

He is survived by his children, Rick and Cindy Benjamin of Lexington and Tammy and Randy Coons of Callaway; his grandchildren, and great-grandchildren, Jessica and (Nick) Johnson of Alma and their children, Emerynn and Jace, Darcy Benjamin of Lexington and her children, Laela and Kysen, Brady Benjamin of Cozad, Cassy Coons of Callaway and her son, William, and Brandi Coons of Callaway, as well as extended family and friends.

Funeral Services will be held on Thursday, April 9, 2026, at 10:00 a.m. at Reynolds-Love Funeral Home in Lexington with Pastor Dean Haidle, officiating. The service will be livestreamed via the Reynolds-Love Funeral Home Facebook Page.

Visitation will be held on Wednesday, April 8, 2026, from 5-7 p.m. at Reynolds-Love Funeral Home in Lexington.

Burial with Military Honors will be held at Greenwood Cemetery.

Memorials are kindly suggested to the family for later designation.

Reynolds-Love Funeral Home in Lexington is honored to be assisting the family with arrangements. Please share online condolences with the family by visiting: reynoldslovefuneralhome.com