In Loving Memory of Acheron Dean Leo Massey

In Loving Memory of Acheron Dean Leo Massey
BENTON, IL — A profound sorrow hangs over the community of Benton as friends, neighbors, and loved ones grieve the tragic passing of three‑year‑old Acheron Dean Leo Massey. Acheron’s life was cut tragically short on June 27, 2025, leaving an unfillable void in the hearts of all who knew and loved him.

🌟 A Bright, Precious Life

Born on September 14, 2021, Acheron brought brightness and boundless energy into every room he entered. From the moment he learned to walk, he delighted in the small wonders of the world—fluttering butterflies in the backyard, the feel of grass beneath his bare feet, and the sweet tickle of bubbles drifting on the breeze. His laughter, resonant and infectious, had the power to uplift even the heaviest hearts.

Acheron adored everything about the outdoors. Morning walks with his father, Michael Massey, were a ritual. Together, they explored neighborhood parks, splashed in puddles, and marveled at cloud shapes in the sky. Acheron’s curly hair and big brown eyes reflected the inquisitive spirit of a child who saw magic in the simplest of things.

💞 Cherished by Family & Friends

Acheron was the beloved son of Michael and Elena Massey, and a doted‑upon brother to toddler sister, Lila (18 months). He was the apple of his grandparents’ eyes—Donna and Greg Massey of Benton, and Linda and Arthur Ruiz of Carbondale. Every family gathering, backyard picnic, or birthday celebration resonated with his bright-eyed curiosity and infectious giggle.

His joyful presence reached beyond blood relations. Neighbors remember him zooming past on his miniature tricycle, hollering “Hiya!” to passersby. Preschool classmates recall his playful hugs, his readiness to share toys, and his ever-present grin. Teachers in Benton’s early childhood program praised his imagination, cooperative spirit, and seemingly insatiable thirst for stories—all told in a cupboard of colorful costume capes he wore with pride.

🧸 A Life That Touched Many

Whether playing superheroes at preschool, guiding stuffed animals on imaginary journeys at the kitchen table, or delighting in weekend storytime at Benton Library, Acheron had an uncanny ability to make everyone feel joy. His favorite was “Goodnight, Goodnight, Construction Site,” which he could recite almost by heart—complete with sound effects and enthusiastic gestures.

The community embraced his playfulness wholeheartedly. His “Wednesday Waddle” at the Benton Farmers’ Market—his proud promenade between Dad and Grandma Donna, waving hello to vendors—became a small weekly tradition. In each wave, each giggle, each shy smile to the camera, Benton saw in Acheron a special kind of sunshine.

💔 A Tragic Loss

On June 27, Acheron and his family were enjoying a quiet evening in their driveway when a moment of misfortune occurred. He stepped too close to the roadway and was struck. Emergency responders and medical teams rushed to the scene, battling valiantly. But Acheron passed away surrounded by his loving parents, who held him in their arms as he slipped away—his brief life ending at just three years old.

The local police released an official statement noting that the tragic accident remains under investigation, with no indication of criminal intent. Traffic safety advocates have already begun calling for renewed attention to speed mitigation and enhanced pedestrian protections in Benton, hoping to prevent other tragedies from touching different families.

🌱 Remembering Acheron’s Legacy

Acheron leaves behind his parents, Michael and Elena; sister Lila; grandparents Donna, Greg, Linda, and Arthur; and a host of aunts, uncles, cousins, friends, and neighbors—all of whom carry fragments of his spirit in their hearts.

A memorial service to honor his life will take place on July 4, 2025, at 11:00 AM at Benton Community Center. The family invites all who felt his light—whether at school, the park, the library, or in the quiet moments—to join in celebration. Attendees are welcome to bring a balloon, a story, or a small memento representing the warmth he spread.

In place of flowers, the Masseys kindly request donations to be made to:

• Benton Children’s Safety Fund – supporting public playground safety and neighborhood walkability

• Junior Library Fund (Benton Public Library) – to nurture early literacy and encourage little imaginations

🕊️ A Community’s Grief and Resolve

Our town mourns not only the loss of a beloved child, but the laughter silenced all too soon. Still, we hold onto the lessons he bestowed so effortlessly: the joy of curiosity, the power of innocent wonder, the connection sparked by a single “Hiya!” or an outstretched hand. Acheron may have left us, but his wide‑eyed enchantment remains embedded in our collective memory.

May the memory of his laughter live in every children’s game in our parks, in every rainbow spotted after rain, and in every story shared during quiet bedtime moments. May Benton honor his brief but radiant chapter by spreading kindness, enhancing safety, and embracing the childlike wonder that united us all.

Rest in peace, dear Acheron Dean Leo Massey—you showed us the light of a thousand sparkles, and your gentle soul will dance in our hearts forevermore.