Bennie Upchurch, Jr.

Bennie Upchurch Jr., 92, of Centralia was welcomed Home to the arms of his Lord and Savior Wednesday, May 22, 2024. He was born on February 24, 1932, the son of Bennie Sr. and Hettie (Rose) Upchurch in Centralia. He married the love of his life, Talmadge Renfro on April 21, 1957, in Centralia and she preceded him in death on November 25, 2016.

Survivors that will remember Bennie as a protective provider for his beloved family include his daughter, Stephanie Upchurch of Centralia; son, Dr. Bennie Ray Upchurch and wife Michelle of Columbus, OH; grandchildren, Quinton Upchurch, Olivia R. Upchurch, Gavin T. Upchurch; special nephew, Randy Upchurch; and a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, extended family members and friends.  

Along with his devoted wife of 59 years, Talmadge Upchurch, Mr. Upchurch was preceded in death by his parents Bennie Sr. and Hettie Upchurch; and siblings Doris Clark, Margie Rose Upchurch, Rodman Upchurch, Gracie Margaret Upchurch, and Robert Upchurch.

Mr. Upchurch was a faithful member of Second Baptist Missionary Church of Centralia where he served as Chairman of the Deacon Board, & finance committee to name a few. He was a proud United States Air Force veteran who served his country with honor as an MP. Bennie loved his community and served it in many different capacities.  Many remember his service with the Centralia Police force, retiring a Lieutenant, or Selling Cars at LTD Ford, or even driving a bus.  He served Centralia by being on the CTD Board, Marion County Housing Commission, PHADA, & Mt. Olive Baptist District holding several offices.  Mr. Upchurch donated his time and gifts as a boy scout leader, a member of the Mount Olive Baptist brotherhood, American Legion, FOP, and Sheriffs Association.

A celebration of life service will be held at 1:00 p.m. Saturday, June 1, 2024, at the Calumet Christian Church.  Visitation will be held at the church from 11 to the time of Service. Burial will follow at the Elmwood Cemetery in Centralia. Repass following at the American Legion in Centralia. Online condolences and memories of Bennie may be shared with the family by visiting www.maczfuneralhomes.com and/or on the funeral home’s Facebook page. 

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