William Edward "Bill" Benline Jr., 76, of St. Clairsville, Ohio, died May 25, 2024, at Wheeling Hospital in Wheeling, West Virginia.

He was born October 18, 1947, in Martins Ferry, Ohio, a son of the late Leenora Briggs Benline and William E. Benline Sr.

Bill was a 1965 Martins Ferry High School graduate. He then attended college but decided to opt for a position in the coal industry, beginning at North American Coal Co. and later retiring after 32 years ending his career as General Mine Foreman for Murray Energy, Century Mine. Bill was an entrepreneur opening The Gold Store offering fine jewelry in St. Clairsville. He was an active member, Elder and Deacon of GRACE Presbyterian Church in Martins Ferry.

Bill was a member, past master, former secretary and a gifted ritualist of Weyer Lodge #541 F. & A.M., a member and past worthy patron of Weyer Chapter #515, O.E.S. both in Centerville, Ohio. Other masonic memberships include Ancient Accepted Scottish Rite Valley of Steubenville having achieved an honorary 33rd degree; a member of Royal Arch Masons Chapter #107, and Royal and Select Masons Council #87 both in Bellaire and Hope Commandery #26 Knights Templar in Shadyside; and was a past district educational officer for the 23rd Masonic District.

In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by a sister, Debra Tucker and brother, Francis Benline.

Bill is survived by his loving wife of 57 years, Paula Graham Benline; a son, William Edward (Heather) Benline III of Denver; a daughter, Wendy Dean of Bethesda; three grandchildren, Andrew Dean, Grace Dean and Seth Dean of Bethesda; a brother, Joseph (Diana) Benline Sr. of Steubenville; sister-in-law, Peggy (Stanley) Otto of Centerville; and several nieces and nephews.

Family and friends will be received on Wednesday from Noon until time of service at 2 p.m. at the Toothman Funeral Home in St. Clairsville, Ohio, with Pastor Paul Todd officiating. The burial will follow in Concord Cemetery in Centerville, Ohio.

In lieu of flowers the family requests memorial contributions be made in Bill's memory to GRACE Presbyterian Church, 7 North Fourth St., Martins Ferry, Ohio 43935.