CECIL, Bennie Joe

Arizona Silver Belt, Globe, Arizona, Wednesday, August 21, 2013 Bennie Joe Cecil, of Mesa, Ariz., passed away on Tuesday, Aug. 13, 2013 at age 85. He was born June 21, 1928, the son of Walter McKinley Cecil and Jewel Parrish. Bennie was the owner of B.J. Cecil Trucking. He ran the business until his retirement in 1985. He grew up and resided in Miami, Ariz. until about 30 years ago. He was the Bishop of the Miami Ward and Stake President of the Globe Arizona Stake LDS churches. He also served as a member of the Miami School Board. Bennie especially loved his service as an ordinance worker in the Arizona Temple. He owned many boats, loved water skiing, working with the youth and staying at his cabin. He built many homes with his wife, Phyllis. Bennie is survived by his wife, Phyllis Ruth Markham Cecil; son, Chris Cecil (Dana); daughter, Lori Cecil Ellsworth (Gary); eight grandchildren; 11 great-grandchildren; and sister, Cuma Broomfield (Bob). He is preceded in death by his father, Walter McKinley Cecil; mother, Jewel Parrish; and brother, Walter McKinley Cecil Jr. Memorial services were held on Monday, Aug. 19 at the LDS Aspen Ward Chapel, 1249 S. 48th St., Mesa, Ariz. Internment was at Mountain View Cemetery.