Benton Hedges, age 91, of Portland passed away Sunday July 14, 2024 in Prairie Lakes Nursing Facility in Noblesville, Indiana.  He was born in Fifty Six, Arkansas on July 15, 1933 the son of Thurman and Letcie (Haney) Hedges.  He was married on June 1, 1952 to Norma Lou Zerkel and she passed away on February 26, 2017.  Benton was retired from Teledyne Portland Forge and had worked at Wal-Mart as a greeter.  He was a 1951 Portland High School graduate, attended The Rock Church and was a member of Moose Lodge.  Benton enjoyed playing country and blue grass music, playing the guitar and harmonica.  He also enjoyed woodworking.

Surviving is one son Bruce Hedges (wife Heather) of Fishers, Indiana, Two son in laws Mark Craig of Thomasville, Georgia and Tom Baldauf of Portland,  one brother Adlie Hedges (wife Marilyn) of Idaho, Six grandchildren, Eight great grandchildren and four great great grandchildren.  He was preceded in death by daughters June Craig and Sheila Baldauf and brother Ruben Hedges.

Funeral services will be Saturday July 20, 2024 at 1:00 PM in the Baird-Freeman Funeral Home with Pastor Matt Ransom presiding.  Burial will follow in the Green Park Cemetery.  Visitation will be Saturday from 10:00 – 1:00 PM.  Memorials can be made to the Jay County Heart Fund.

Online condolences at www.bairdfreeman.com