Rufus J. Bivens

Rufus J. Bivens, 81, of Benton, TN passed away Sunday, May 5, 2019 at his home.  He was born and reared in Tellico Plains, TN.  He was a member of First Baptist Church of Benton, TN and was not afraid to ask anyone if they knew Jesus Christ.  He loved life, his family, his country and people. 

He was retired from the US Forest Service where he received numerous awards for his services and Bradley County Road Department.  He had lots of interests that included going to flea markets, gardening, collecting and a bee keeper.     

He was preceded in death by his parents, Fred and Lila Bivens; brother, Alden Bivens; sisters, Daisey Dockery, Minnie Ledford, Vonnie Bivens, Dollie Bivens; daughters-in-law, Jenny Keown Bivens, Cheryl Murphy Bivens. 

He is survived by his wife of 60 years, Wanda McCarter Bivens; children, Mitchell (Regina) Bivens of Cleveland, TN, Randall (Karen) Bivens of Ringgold, GA, Cheryl (Charlie) Rider of Cleveland TN, Donna (Richard) Sudderth of Nashville, TN; 10 grandchildren; 8 great grandchildren and 2 on their way; brother, Luther (Margaret) Bivens of Tellico Plains, TN; sister, Ollie (Cliff) Gerry of Vonore, TN.  Also surviving are several nieces, nephews and extended family members.   

Funeral services will be at 2:00 p.m. on Wednesday, May 8, 2019 at Higgins Funeral Home in Benton, TN with Preacher Randall Bivens and Reverend Steve Linginfelter officiating.  Interment will follow in Benton Memorial Gardens, Benton, TN.  A white dove release ceremony will conclude the services.  

The family will receive friends from 5:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. on Tuesday, May 7, 2019 and from 12:00 – 2:00 p.m. on Wednesday, May 8, 2019 at the funeral home prior to the service. 

We invite you to send a message of condolence and view the Bivens Family guestbook at www.higginsfuneral.com.

Funeral arrangements are entrusted to Higgins Funeral Home of Benton, Tennessee.