Early Life and Marriage

Martha Frances Stancil was born on May 26, 1941, in Johnston County, North Carolina, to Dessie and Thomas Emmette Stancil. Named after her great-grandmother Martha Lucas and her mother Dessie, Martha grew up with dark hair and a strong spirit. Jack Alan Benedict, born to Samuel Clarence and Alice E. Stigleman Benedict, grew up in the rural community of Marlette, Michigan. From an early age, Jack dreamed of moving to a warmer place.

Jack joined the Marine Corps and was trained as a jet engine mechanic. Stationed at Cherry Point, North Carolina, he met Martha during a vacation at White Lake. Their relationship blossomed, and they married on January 25, 1957, in the Glendale community of Johnston County, North Carolina.

Family and Career

Martha and Jack had three children: Gerri Renee, Derek Alan, and Morris Dale. After Jack's enlistment ended, the family moved to Washington, North Carolina, where Jack worked at the airport for his brother-in-law, Thomas Emmette "Junior" Stancil Jr. Jack earned his pilot's license, became an instructor, and flew charter flights. Two of their children, Gerri and Derek, were born in Washington, while Dale was born in Elizabethtown, North Carolina.

Jack's natural talent for flying led him to commercial pilot training in Winston-Salem, North Carolina. He was hired by Piedmont Airlines, which later merged with US Air. Jack flew many international flights and retired as a Captain after 30 years of service. His son Dale followed in his footsteps and became a professional pilot for American Airlines.

Challenges and Triumphs

Martha faced significant challenges in her life. In 1989, she attempted to set a fire that injured her father, Emmette. This incident led to her conviction and imprisonment. Despite these hardships, Martha remained a devoted mother and homemaker until her passing on January 3, 1993, in Raleigh, North Carolina. She was buried at Holly Springs Free Will Baptist Cemetery in Kenly, Johnston County, North Carolina.

Jack, on the other hand, continued to pursue his dreams. He bought a farm near Newnan, Georgia, in 1969 and raised Beefalo and Simmentals cattle. In 1980, he met his soulmate, Ruth, and they married, sharing a love for Harley Davidson motorcycles and making many road trips together.

Legacy and Memories

Jack kept busy after retiring by joining the Coweta County Volunteer Fire Department and attending the annual Piedmont Silver Eagles Reunion.

Jack passed away on January 31, 2011, after a brave battle with lung cancer. He was buried with a Marine Corp Honor Guard at Forest Lawn Cemetery in Newnan, Georgia. Jack's life was a testament to his dedication to his family, his passion for flying, and his love for adventure.

Martha and Jack's story is one of love, resilience, and the pursuit of dreams. Their legacy lives on through their children, grandchildren, and the many lives they touched along the way.

— Renn Stancil Hinton