Russell Keith "Rusty" Benfield

Russell Keith “Rusty” Benfield, 51, passed away at his home on July 5, 2026. Rusty was born on March 26, 1975, in Rock Hill, South Carolina. A proud South Carolinian, he graduated from the University of South Carolina, where he was a member of the Sigma Nu Fraternity and developed a lifelong love for the Gamecocks. Rusty proudly served his country in the Army National Guard as a Communications Officer. Throughout his professional career, he built lasting relationships in the banking industry, working for Bank of America Premier Division from 2000 to 2006 before joining PNC Bank in 2006 as a Healthcare Business Banker. He also enjoyed working closely with colleagues and clients of the Ohio Dental Association. Above all else, Rusty was a devoted husband, father, son, brother, and friend. He cherished his family and rarely missed an opportunity to cheer on his children at their school events, athletic competitions, and other activities. He found great joy in being present for every milestone in their lives. Known as the family’s chef, Rusty expressed his love through cooking and took pride in bringing everyone together around the table. Rusty attended St. Joan of Arc Catholic Church with his family. He deeply loved the United States, valued service to others, and was passionate about supporting the ALS Foundation. He is survived by his beloved wife, Tobi McLoughlin Benfield; his cherished children, Grae Diane, Gunner Mac, and Gambel Shah Benfield; his mother, Diane Rice Gatlin; his brother, Jamie (May) Benfield; his nephew, Pierce Benfield; his in-laws, Alan and Diane McLoughlin and Todd and Lori McLoughlin; his nephew, Jake McLoughlin; his niece, Janie McLoughlin; his uncle, Bobby (Holly) Rice; and many loving cousins, extended family members, dear friends, colleagues, and clients. He was preceded in death by his father, Russell Benfield; his stepfather, Keith Gatlin; his uncle, Gene Rice; and his cousin Casey Rice and Uncle Danny Rice. Rusty will be remembered for his unwavering devotion to his family, his generous heart, his patriotism, his love of cooking, and his infectious enthusiasm for the South Carolina Gamecocks. His kindness, loyalty, humor, and willingness to help others left a lasting impression on everyone who knew him. His legacy will live on in the lives he touched and in the family he loved so deeply. Visitation will be held Monday, July 13, 2026, from 4:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. at Rutherford Funeral Home at Powell, Powell, Ohio. A Mass of Christian Burial will be Celebrated on Tuesday, July 14, 2026, at 10:30 a.m. at St. Joan of Arc Catholic Church in Powell, Ohio. In Lieu of Flowers, please donate to: https://www.gofundme.com/f/support-for-rusty-benfields-family .

Russell Keith "Rusty" Benfield

March 26, 1975 - July 5, 2026