Mr. Roy Hiram Benifield of Martin, GA passed away peacefully at home on Friday, March 7, 2025.

He was born April 5, 1946 in Buford, GA and was the son of the late Joseph John Benifield and Dovey Udell Wright Benifield. Roy joined the Marines in June 1964 and discharged in April 1970 as a Sargent E5. Afterwards, he joined DeKalb County Police Department and retired in September 1996 as a Lieutenant. Roy then joined OSCE {Organization for Security and Cooperation in Europe}. He was director of training in Bosnia, teaching Democratic Principles of Policing. Roy spent a year there before transferring to Kosovo. Due to the war, he returned home. After the war, he returned to Kosovo with Dyncorp who was contracted through the US State Department to work with the United Nations to restore law and order. He had a large heart and helped so many people along life's journey.

He is preceded in death by three sisters and three brothers. He is survived by his wife of 54 years, Velda Linette Stover Benifield, by his children Samuel Richard (Ricky) Benifield and Randall (Randy) Scott Benifield, by his grandchildren Kayla Michelle Benifield Pierro (and Tyler), Samuel Richard Benifield II, and Charles Brandon Benifield, as well as by three sister-in-law's and many nieces and nephews.

Per his final wishes, there will be no service.

Strickland Funeral Home of Lavonia is in charge of the arrangements. To sign the online guest register please visit stricklandfh.com.