Mrs. Alice Virginia Wooten Benton

Remembering the Life and Legacy of Alice “Sweet” Virginia Wooten Benton Alice was born April 15, 1934, in Bainbridge, Georgia to the late O. Z. Wooten and Arissa Jane Jackson Wooten. She was the oldest of two children born from this union. Alice departed this earthly life on November 2, 2024 at her home in Columbia, South Carolina. She was educated in the Bainbridge School System and graduated from Hutto High School. Within months of graduation, she attended Apex Beauty College and became a licensed beautician. She soon married her high school friend, Andrew Benton on June 2, 1956 in Bainbridge and he became the love of her life. They shared fifty-two beautiful years of marital bliss and to this union four children were raised in the home. Later, she was employed as a seamstress with the Levi Strauss Company and Pioneer Dress Company until her retirement. Having been influenced by early religious training at the Nelson Chapel African Methodist Episcopal Church in Bainbridge, Georgia, the family found their church home at Hopewell Baptist Church in Dalzell, South Carolina, after various moves due to military service. It is known that Alice was a devoted daughter, sister, loving mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, and great-great-grandmother. Her personality, loyalty, and passion for service won her many lifelong friends. Alice affectionately known as “Ms. Alice” was involved in many community organizations, from serving within Girl Scouting for over thirty-two years, the Order of the Eastern Star – Catchall Chapter #125, Golden Circle, and D.O.I. – Cairo Court #125, which she held various positions and roles. She will also be well remembered for founding the Order of the Doves. As an advocate for children, she spent time volunteering within the local primary schools. The community has suffered a great loss, by her passing. In addition to her parents and husband, she was preceded in death by her son, James Edward (Diana) Wooten and a brother, Charles Allen (Mary) Wooten, Sr. Leaving to cherish precious memories are her children: Andrew (Margaret) Benton Jr. of Huntersville, North Carolina, Arleen Benton of Columbia, South Carolina, Audrey G. Samuel of Hopkins, South Carolina; nine grandchildren, seventeen great-grandchildren, and seven great-great-grandchildren; a sister-in-law, Ruth Benton of Cincinnati, Ohio; and a host of nieces, nephews, godchildren, relatives, and friends, all of whom she loved deeply.

Mrs. Alice Virginia Wooten Benton

April 15, 1934 - November 2, 2024