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Dean's mechanical genius extended to his passion for restoring cars and motorcycles, notably his prized 1971 yellow VW Bug and his 2006 Harley Davidson.

Dean Alan Benedict, aged 64, passed away on August 19, 2026, in Hemphill, Texas. Born on November 17, 1961, in Dallas, Texas, Dean was a cherished member of the Hemphill community and a beloved figure among his family and friends.

Before retiring, Dean worked diligently as a production line technician at Mary Kay Cosmetics. He was a skilled handyman and owner of Dean Benedict's Handyman Service, a venture that supported many in their times of need. Dean's mechanical genius extended to his passion for restoring cars and motorcycles, notably his prized 1971 yellow VW Bug and his 2006 Harley Davidson.

Dean's life was marked by his love for his family and friends as well as the outdoors, especially fishing and boating, and cruising on his Harley. His hands were rarely still, as he was always tinkering, fixing, or improving something. This generosity extended beyond his hobbies, as he was always ready to lend a hand to others.

He was a devoted member of the First Baptist Church in Hemphill, where he engaged in community and spiritual activities.

Dean leaves behind his loving wife, Debbie Benedict of Hemphill; his son, Devin Dean Benedict of Santa Rosa, FL; daughters, Whitney Nell McQuitty and husband, Charles, of San Marcos, Julia Elizabeth Ratliff and husband, Tyler, of Aubrey, and Shaila Deann Miller and husband, Brayden, of Hinesville, GA; stepchildren, Chris Thurston and wife Tabatha of Lumberton and Melissa Boucher and husband Robert of Lumberton, Kasondra Cory of Georgia, Ashley Urban and husband Cody of Nevada and William Cory of Nevada. He is also survived by his brother, Darin Benedict and wife, Angela, of Alabama; sister, Jill Pennington-Cox of Kemp; stepbrother Mark Redding and wife, Bobbie, of Desoto and brother Matthew Benedict and wife Christina of Desoto; grandchildren, in order of age, Kylee, Braxton, Leyton, Hallee, Micah, Ayla, Aeris, Tate and Bennett; and great-grandson, Colter. He is also survived by his stepfather, Neal Schmidt and wife, Susan, of Alabama and biological father, Val Pennington of Kemp, Tx.

His life was preceded in death by his father, William "Buddy" Benedict, and mother, Judy Ross.

Visitation will be held from 5:00 p.m. until 8:00 p.m. Thursday, August 27, 2026 at Starr Funeral Home, 510 Starr Street in Hemphill, Texas.

Funeral services will begin at 10:00 a.m. Friday, August 28, 2026, at First Baptist Church, 301 Mann Street in Hemphill under the direction of Starr Funeral Home with Pastor Rick Harrison officiating.

Burial will follow service at 2:30 p.m. in Memory Gardens Cemetery, 3098 Highway 69 N in Nederland, Texas.

Dean's presence will be profoundly missed, but his legacy of kindness, craftsmanship, and devotion will live on through the many lives he touched.

Memories and condolences may be shared at starrfuneralhome.com.