CARtersville, Georgia — Marlin “Skip” Benton, a former Fulton High School basketball standout who went on to play college basketball on scholarship, passed away on May 18, 2026, at the age of 79.
Known to family, friends, and former classmates as “Skip,” Benton built a life centered on family, faith, sports, and service to his community.
His passing has prompted an outpouring of memories from those who knew him both on and off the court.
Born on June 20, 1946, in Atlanta, Benton was the son of Ralph Benton and Francis Chandler Benton. He graduated from Fulton High School in 1964 before continuing his education and athletic career at Huron University in South Dakota.
Basketball played a significant role in Benton’s early years. His talent on the court earned him a scholarship to Huron University, where he continued competing at the collegiate level while working toward his degree.
He graduated from the university in 1970, carrying with him a lifelong appreciation for sports and teamwork.
After college, Benton built a career dedicated to public service. He worked for the Cedartown Post Office for more than two decades before retiring in 2008 following 23 years of service.
Friends and family remember him as someone who never lost his love for athletics. Whether it was following sports, playing recreationally, or enjoying weekly rounds of golf, Benton remained active throughout much of his life.
Wednesday golf outings became a regular tradition, allowing him to spend time with friends while continuing the competitive spirit that had defined his younger years.
His colleague Karen Cline wrote,
“I had the pleasure of working with Skip in Cedartown. He was dedicated, hardworking, and someone I respected a great deal. He was kind to me in a particular situation and even came to my defense — something I’ve never forgotten. His work ethic and character made a real difference, and he will be missed.”
He was also a longtime member of Tabernacle Baptist Church in Cartersville, where he remained active in his faith community.
Benton was preceded in death by his parents, Ralph and Francis Benton Sr., and his twin sister, Tina Benton Wilbanks.
He is survived by his wife, Darlene Jones Benton; his sons, Marlin Clay Benton Jr. and wife Stacy, and Tim Benton; granddaughters Audrey Benton and Cadey Benton; sister Brenda Benton Scoggins; brother Ralph Benton Jr. and wife Patsy; along with numerous nieces, nephews, extended family members, and friends.
For many who knew him, Benton will be remembered as a devoted husband, father, grandfather, athlete, and friend whose life touched countless people across Georgia and beyond.
A graveside service was conducted on May 22, 2026, at Chastain Memorial Park in Blue Ridge, Georgia. Dr. Roger Beck officiated the service as family and loved ones gathered to celebrate Benton’s life and legacy.
Though his basketball days ended decades ago, those closest to him say the values he learned through sports, commitment, discipline, friendship, and perseverance, remained evident throughout his life.
His legacy lives on through the family he loved, the friendships he maintained, and the many memories shared by those fortunate enough to know him.
