PORTSMOUTH--On July 21, 2025, James Thomas "Tommy" Benn III, age 86, set the flaps and pitched for his final approach to eternity, bringing to a close a life marked by quiet strength, curiosity, and a deep love for flight. As a private pilot and lifelong aviation enthusiast, he often said, "You know you really enjoy something when you can't think about anything else while you're doing it." For him, flying was that place—where focus met freedom, and the world seemed to pause above the clouds.

He was preceded in death by his wife, Carole Lee Benn; parents James Thomas Benn, Jr. and Anna Byrd White Benn; and daughter-in-law Jean Benn.  He leaves behind his children, Jim Benn (Rhonda), Jonathan Benn, Bonnie Fratter (Jon), and Ashley Benn (Daniel). He was also "Big Daddy" to nine grandchildren, and two great-grandchildren.

Tommy graduated from Virginia Polytechnic Institute with a degree in mechanical engineering. He began his career at Virginia Chemicals and later retired as a nuclear engineer from the Norfolk Naval Shipyard, where he served as Director of Quality Assurance. His commitment to his community was equally strong—he served as Chairman of the Portsmouth School Board and was a member of the Portsmouth City Council, always working to make his hometown a better place.

Whether in the cockpit or on the ground, he approached life with steadiness, attentiveness, and a dry sense of humor that those close to him will never forget. Though the runway ahead is now out of sight, his legacy remains in the lives he touched, the stories he told, the city he helped shape, and the skies he so dearly loved. Though he has departed, in many ways he remains in the pattern—circling in our memories, our stories, and the lasting impact of his life. We entrust him to the mercy of God and the horizon that lies beyond.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made in his memory to Court Street Baptist Church, 447 Court Street, Portsmouth, Virginia, 23704. A memorial service honoring Tommy's life will be held at a later date. Condolences may be registered at BWFosterFuneralHome.com.