James “Leroy” Benefield, a longtime Lake County resident, passed away Aug. 7, 2012, after a brief battle with throat cancer.

Leroy, as he was known, was born Dec. 5, 1932, in Wardville, Okla. to Edd and Alice Benefield.

He retied from Piedmont Lumber Truss in 1993. He always had a love for cars, either racing them or buying and selling or even just admiring them.

Leroy is survived by his daughters, Rhonda (Tim) Earley and Cheryl (Tim) Morin; grandchildren, Brandon and Terra Morin and Kyle and Kendra Earley who labeled him “Lakeport’s Perfect Papa.” He also is survived by his sister, Pauline Hamner, and many nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his wife, Nancy.

Leroy will be remembered by many by his straight shooter talking, his bright blue eyes and his positive attitude.

“Hope for the best and deal with the worst” are words he lived by.

The family prefers donations in his memory be made to Lakeport’s Meals on Wheels in c/o the Lakeport Senior Center.

Private services will be held.

Cremation arrangements by Chapel of the Lakes Mortuary.