Kelvin “Nater” Benford, age 62, of Phil Campbell, passed away Monday, May 25, 2026, surrounded by his loving family.
He was born on August 22, 1963, to Jerry and Hester Geneva Trapp Benford. Nater was a graduate of Phil Campbell High School and a lifelong resident of the Trapptown community. He enjoyed fishing, hunting, and gardening. Nater especially loved watching his children and grandchildren play ball. He and his wife, Karrie, shared a wonderful marriage of 32 years, always caring deeply for one another. He also had several close friends with whom he enjoyed spending time with.
A visitation will be held Friday, May 29, 2026, from 5:00 until 8:00 PM at Akins Funeral Home in Russellville, Alabama. Funeral services will be held Saturday, May 30, 2026, starting at 11:00 AM, at Union Hill First Congregational Methodist Church in Phil Campbell, Alabama. Burial will follow at Union Hill Cemetery. Services will be officiated by Todd Carter and Harlon Hutcheson.
Nater is survived by his wife, Karrie Hutcheson Benford; sons, Skeeter Benford, Rhett Benford, and Trey Benford; daughter, Elizabeth (Tyler) Joyner; grandchildren, Lacey Benford, Stetson Joyner, and Baylor Joyner; brothers, Randy Benford, Bill Benford, and Jed Benford; and sister, Shalain Benford. He is also survived by a host of aunts, uncles, nieces, nephews, cousins, and many friends.
He is preceded in death by his father, Jerry Benford, and his mother, Geneva Benford.