OPDYKE, Ill. — Burrell “Benny” Benjamin Hulbert, 89, of Opdyke, left this earth to be with God at 9:06 p.m., Thursday, August 17, 2023, at SSM Health Good Samaritan Hospital in Mt. Vernon.  His family was at his bedside as he crossed over.

He was born on May 24, 1934, in Mt. Vernon, the son of Burrell Mannen Hulbert and Grace Hulbert Mathus (nee Patterson).  He married Ruth Hulbert (nee Johnson) on December 18, 1954.  They were married almost 69 years, setting an example for their daughters, Cheryl and Vickie.

He loved his family, and he loved working as a carpenter and woodworker, but most importantly, he loved Jesus, and would share the Good News with anyone.  Benny was one of a kind.  Everyone who knew him loved him.  He was a strong man — strong enough to be kind, gentle, helpful, giving, and compassionate.  He was a role model that his daughters looked up to, and he set the standard high.  He was dearly loved and he will be greatly missed.

He is survived by his wife; two daughters, Cheryl Roney (Scott) of Arizona, and Vickie Simmons (Larry) of Texico; six grandchildren, Dane Roney of Arizona, Addison Flourney (Nick) of Arizona, Savannah Roney (fiancée, Gary) of Arizona, Julie Trinkle (Andrew) of Iuka, John Simmons (Sara) of Mokena, and Jeanna Donoho (Travis) of Iuka; and nine great-grandchildren, Briley Hammond, Bren Flournoy, Lynnox Flournoy, Veda Simmons, Colbie Simmons, Briar Simmons, Zella Trinkle, Silas Trinkle, and Elias Trinkle.

He was preceded in death by his mother; and brother, Arthur Hulbert.

Graveside funeral services for Mr. Hulbert will be held at 11:00 a.m., Thursday, August 24, 2023, at Thomason Cemetery in Wayne City, with Ted Anderson officiating.  Visitation will be held Wednesday, August 23, 2023, from 5:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m., at the Osborn Funeral Home in Dix.  Memorial gifts may be made to Thomason Cemetery, and will be accepted at the service, or by mail to the Osborn Funeral Home, P.O. Box 130, Dix, Illinois 62830.  Online condolences may be made at www.osbornfuneral.com, or on the Osborn Funeral Home Facebook page.