Thomas H. Benton Jr.

Thomas H. Benton Jr., of St. Charles, Missouri, passed away Friday, March 12, 2021 at the age of 79. He is the husband of Charlotte Benton; son of the late Thomas H. Sr. and Ruth Benton; father of Tom H. Benton, III and Daniel K. Benton; grandfather of Harlin & Bryce Benton; brother of John (Paula) Benton, and David (Linda) Benton. He is also survived by nieces & nephews, other relatives & friends as well as sisters-in-law, Javada Brown, Kay (Bob) Adams, and Janet Belcher. Tom is preceded in death by his brothers-in-law, Lavell & Gary Belcher.

Tom married his high school sweetheart and love of his life 58 years ago in April. They had a beautiful marriage full of love and joy. Tom loved his family dearly and enjoyed nothing more than to spend time with them, especially his grandchildren.

Tom was a 1959 Graduate of Eureka High School, the University of Missouri St. Louis, and continued his education at Webster University. He honorably served his country during the Vietnam War in the United States Air Force. When he returned from deployment, Tom went to work for McDonell Aircraft Corporation in electronics. He then spent 20 years with the St. Charles City Police Department, starting as a patrolman, serving in roles such as the Public Relations Officer, and retiring as a Lieutenant. During this time, he attended and graduated from the FBI National Academy and felt it was one of the greatest honors of his life. During his time in the PR department, Tom was featured on several news sources, including “48 Hours” and the “Frank O. Pinion Show.” Upon his "retirement" from the City of St. Charles, Tom became the Director of Security for Station Casino and later Ameristar Casino. His final retirement was in 2006 and he was able to enjoy some years before his Parkinson’s Diagnosis.

Tom was a very artistic man and was truly gifted in photography, carving and painting. His hobbies focused on photography and fishing. He was somebody who could master just about anything he put his mind to, this included earning his private pilot license, a true renaissance man. He would never leave the house without a book or his camera. He especially liked reading police-based mystery and suspense novels and had a soft spot for science fiction. He always hoped he could write his own book one day.

Tom will be remembered for being a true stand-up guy who always took care and spoke highly of others. He was always fair, considerate, and kind, a man of integrity. Tom made an impression on just about everybody he met. He was a gentleman through and through. Tom was dearly loved and will be greatly missed by all who knew him.

Memorials may be made in Tom’s name to American Parkinson's Disease Association.

Due to the COVID-19 Pandemic Baue Funeral Homes does require all family members and guests to wear a mask while visiting our facilities. Social distancing is required, and guests should stay at least 6 feet apart. Thank you for your understanding.