Chief Master Sergeant (CMSgt) (USAF Ret) Eric Brenard Benford was born October 1, 1963 to the parentage of the late Dolly L. and Robert E. Benford, Sr. of Milledgeville, Georgia.

Mr. Benford, was the Workforce Training and Development Branch Chief.  He oversaw training and development for 400 program management professionals on Robins AFB.  He was instrumental in ensuring excellence in the acquisition career field.  His mentorship of 68 trainees guaranteed the Air Force a future pipeline.  He was hailed by the AFLCMC Senior Executive for having the best training program across the Center for 40 locations.  Eric was a respected professional and his impact will be felt in the acquisition community for many years to come.

Prior to his current occupation, Eric graduated from Baldwin High School in May 1981.  Upon graduation, he enlisted in the USAF in September 1981.  For the next 30 years, Eric rose in the ranks from Airman (E2) through CMSgt (E9), the highest enlisted rank which only the top 1%, the best of the best achieves.  During his time in the military, Eric was stationed and traveled to many parts of the world, earned numerous degrees, most notable a Master of Science Degree in Human Relations from the University of Oklahoma, earned a plethora of major awards, and decorations, and most rewarding, built life-long relationships around the globe.

Proceeded in death is his parents Robert E. and Dolly L. Benford; siblings: Barbara Paul, Richard Hurt, and Reginald "Reggie" Benford; and great-niece Keziah Morris.

Chief Benford is survived by his forever "wife" and caregiver, Keli Benford, his children: Travares "Martell" (Raven) Benford of Milledgeville, Georgia, Corey (Teraneka) Benford of Elmendorf, Arkansas, Edward (Katerina) Walker of Stuttgart, Germany, Nicholas Benford of San Antonio, Texas, and Eric Benford, II of Warner, Robins, Georgia; Grandchildren:  Corey, Jr. (CJ), Jason, Brayden, Leonardo, Nani, Karmyn, Travares, Jr. (MJ), and Calii; devoted nephew and caregiver, Cam'Ron Thomas of Milledgeville, Georgia; Sisters: Delores Benford Morris, Brenda "Babydoll" Benford Thomas, Audrey Stanton, all of Milledgevillle, Georgia  and Carol Griggs of Atlanta, Georgia; Brothers:  Robert (Cynthia) Benford, Jr. of Gray, Georgia, Larry (Gwen) Foster of Milledgeville, Georgia, and Morris Benford of Lake City, Florida; Aunts: Margaret Anderson and Inez Fordham both of Dublin Georgia; host of nieces, nephews, cousins, friends, and military family!

Express condolences, your thoughts, and prayers for the Benford family @ www.peoplesfuneralhomemilledgeville.com

Peoples Funeral Home entrusted with arrangements.