Eugene "Zip" Benfield

Eugene “Zip” Benfield, 86, Passed away on October 31st 2025, at The AuthoraCare Collective Hospice House of Burlington surrounded by his loving Family. A native to Burlington, NC. Zip was the son of Bransom Conely Benfield and Ethel Gilreath Benfield.

Zip was drafted into the US Army during Vietnam , where he received and honorable discharge. He later started his career with Western Electric which soon became AT&T, where he then became Grounds Supervisor. After retiring from AT&T in 1991, he gained the freedom to further pursue his automotive interests, which he was well known for and enjoyed sharing with both family and friends.

One of his proudest accomplishments is his unique and complete collection of North Carolina license plates - one of few in the state - with plates from 1913 to present. He also co-founded the Alamance Region of the Antique Automotive Club of America (AACA) in December of 1964, and was a member of the Central Piedmont Corvette Club. Additionally, in retirement he started his own business restoring, buying, and selling antique license plates, a passion project he shared with his granddaughter, both of whom became members of the North Carolina License Plate Collectors club. When he wasn’t talking about cars, you’d find him tuned into NASCAR or supporting his beloved UNC Tar Heels.

Zip is preceded in death by Bransom Conely Benfield and Ethel Gilreath Benfield. He is survived by his Son Brad Eugene Benfield and Wife Tracy, His Granddaughter London M, Benfield; His Brother Edwin Benfield and wife Brenda of Ellenboro, NC; Sisters Doris Benfield Loftis and Late Husband Wayland Loftis of Burlington; NC Louise Benfield Foltz and Late Husband Gary Foltz of Gastonia, NC; Jeanette Benfield Barrett and Husband Gordon of Rock Hill, SC. He also survived by his three nephews, two nieces, three great nephews and one great niece.

A celebration of his life will be held on Tuesday, November 4, 2025 at 11:00AM at Lowe Funeral Home Chapel officiated by Rev. Mike Mitchener. The family will receive friends from 10-11AM prior to the service. A graveside service with military honors will be held at Salisbury National Cemetery for the family.

The Family will allow guest at The Benfield home on Monday from 2pm to 7pm and Tuesday 1pm to 6pm.

Memorials may be made to The Oaks Community Church Community Church, P O Box 1265, Elon, NC 27244 or Authoracare Hospice, 914 Chapel Hill Road, Burlington, NC 27215.

You may send condolences and sign the online register at www.lowefuneralhome.com.