This article is From USA softball (Read the full article here)
USA Softball is saddened to hear of the passing of longtime USA Softball member and USA Softball of Florida Commissioner, Carlton Benton (July 5, 2022). Our deepest, most heartfelt condolences go out to his family during this difficult time.
“We are deeply saddened to hear about the loss of Commissioner Benton,” said USA Softball Chief Executive Officer (CEO), Craig Cress. “His contributions to USA Softball as well as his passion and dedication to the sport were instrumental for our organization and the state of Florida. Our thoughts and prayers go out to his wife, Wanda, and daughters Natalie and Michelle.”
Carlton Benton (1947-2022)
“Born as a Navy brat in Jacksonville, Fla., Benton had many fond memories of growing up in Fallon, Nev., and Puerto Rico before returning to Florida and settling in Lakeland after his father’s retirement from the U.S. Navy in 1961.
In 1974, he found his calling and began a rewarding and much-loved 30-year career with the City of Lakeland. Through these years, Benton thrived in a variety of roles with a passion for both youth and adult sports programs. He had a great love for sports officiating, and you could often find him on a variety of fields or courts. In 1986 Benton jumped into the national softball scene by attending the Amateur Softball Association (ASA) National Council Meeting in Hawaii, making Lakeland’s first bid on a National Championship. His trip was a success, and the next year Lakeland hosted the ASA Men’s Major Industrial National Championship. This tournament would be the first of many to make a significant and positive economic impact on the area. Benton would continue to pursue his passion for softball by serving as the Commissioner for West Central Florida ASA and eventually in his current role as the State Commissioner for USA Softball of Florida. His dedication and love for the softball community were unparalleled.
