John W.

Benedict Sr.

John William Benedict, Sr., 79, of Havelock, North Carolina, passed away peacefully on Friday, September 25, 2026, at Carolina East.

A memorial service to honor John's life will be held at 5 p.m., Thursday, October 1st at Freedom Baptist Church in Havelock.

John was born on August 8, 1947, in Flint, Michigan, to the late Ralph Clarence Benedict and Shirley June Lutz. John was a devoted man of faith who loved the Lord and spent his life serving Him and the people around him. His faith led him to graduating Flint Bible Institute as an ordained minister. John was a longtime and faithful member of Genesee Independent Baptist Church, where he served in the bus ministry and as the Awana Director. John was also a member of Freedom Baptist Church, his faith was an important part of who he was, and he found great joy in sharing the love of Christ with others.

John was a loving husband, father, grandfather, and great-grandfather who treasured his family above all else. Family meant the world to him, and some of his fondest memories were made simply by spending time together. He especially enjoyed sharing his love for cars by taking his children to car shows, creating memories they would carry with them throughout their lives.

Outside of his family and ministry, John had many interests that brought him joy. He was a huge fan of playing golf and a dedicated coin collector. He was also a proud Detroit Lions fan and Michigan State fan who enjoyed cheering on his favorite teams.

John had a long and successful career with General Motors, where he served as a Journeyman Electrician. He was a hardworking and dedicated man who took pride in his work and in providing for his family.

Above all, John will be remembered for his deep love for the Lord, his devotion to his family, and the countless lives he touched through his faith and service. His legacy of love, faithfulness, and family will continue to live on in those who knew and loved him.

Those remaining to cherish his memory are his loving and devoted wife, Lillian; daughters, Kimberly Shaw of Morehead City, NC, Heather Unruh of Havelock, NC, and Rachel Benedict of Newport, NC; son, John Benedict, Jr. and wife Jenny of Mesa, AZ; sisters, Carol Sedlow and Cathy Lonesberry of Pheonix, AZ; grandchildren, Jennifer Griggs, Victoria Harris, Sarah Benedict, Garrett Backus, Sarah Furiosi, and Brendan Millette; and six great-grandchildren

In addition to his parents John is preceded in death by his brother, David Benedict.

Family and friends are welcome to submit online condolences at www.mundenfuneralhome.net.

Arrangements by Munden Funeral Home & Crematory in Morehead City, NC.