On Wednesday, January 4, 2017, C. C. Young, a premier, non-profit senior living community, celebrated the 86th birthday of Pastoral Care Coordinator and C. C. Young Foundation Board Chairman Dr. Don R. Benton. Residents, board and staff members, family and friends were invited to the special event.
The festivities began with C. C. Young President and CEO Russell Crews welcoming guests to the party and describing what a privilege it is to work and lead with Dr. Benton, who has impacted thousands of peoples lives throughout Dallas. The invocation, lead by C. C. Young Pastoral Care Minister Rev. Dr. Brenda Rose, was followed by United Methodist Church Richardson Senior Pastor Dr. Clayton Oliphint’s tribute to Dr. Benton, who served as a mentor to Oliphint beginning 31 years ago while he was an intern at Lovers Lane United Methodist Church.
The celebration continued with a short film that honored the Texas preacher and his accomplishments, including his role as a Pastor in the local church and on the General Board of Global Ministries of The United Methodist Church. He also served as a delegate to the reorganization of the United Methodist Church of Russia, was a guest of the Southern Africa Forum where he observed the ending of apartheid in South Africa and received a Distinguished Service to Humanity recognition from the Texas State House of Representatives.
In addition to his work in the community, Dr. Benton has authored several books, including Stay Alive As Long As You Live. Richard Stanford of Highland Park Methodist Church and Chairman of the Board at C. C. Young, led an interview about the intent behind writing the book, the importance of spirituality and aging, and prominent themes within the book that apply to everyday life – serenity, peace and love. The party concluded with country-style gospel songs performed by Dr. Benton and his brother Fletcher Jowers, followed by a reception with cupcakes and photos.
“Dr. Benton’s motto for his ministry is to ‘reach beyond where you are, responding to the upward call of God in Christ Jesus,’” said Rev. Dr. Brenda Rose, C. C. Young Pastoral Care Minister. “Those here today are a true testament to just a few of the lives he has touched by caring deeply for people and responding to his calling. We are truly honored to know him.”
Special guests included: Rose Marie Benton, Donald “Dink” Benton, Shelly Benton, Fletcher Jowers, Martha Hardt and Bishop John Wesley Hardt, First United Methodist Church Richardson Senior Pastor Dr. Clayton Oliphint, Highland Park United Methodist Church Director of Encore 65 + Program and Chairman of the Board at C. C. Young Richard Stanford, C. C. Young Board Member Alys Richards and Dr. George Richards and C. C. Young Board Member Judy Gibbs.