Gainesboro, TN - Benton Haile Quarles passed away on July 24, 2026, at the age of 90. He was born on February 1, 1936, in Gainesboro, Tennessee, and spent a lifetime building a legacy of service, professionalism, and quiet generosity.

Benton was a graduate of the University of Tennessee College of Pharmacy. He was known throughout the region as the pharmacist and owner of Anderson and Haile Drug Store in Gainesboro, where he served the community for 48 years. In that role, he was a trusted neighbor, a steady presence, and a familiar face to generations of families who came to rely on his knowledge, care, and integrity. In 2004, Benton was named Pharmacist of the Year for Tennessee, an honor that underscored the high regard in which he was held by his profession.

Benton played an active role in civic and community affairs. He served as a member of the Board of Directors of Twin Lakes Telephone Cooperative, where he contributed to the growth and stability of an important regional institution. He was a former Alderman for the Town of Gainesboro and served as a member of the Gainesboro Port Authority, demonstrating a long-standing commitment to the progress and well-being of his community. He was also a Shriner and a 32nd degree Mason with Tannehill Lodge 133.

As a lifetime member of the Gainesboro First United Methodist Church, faith was an important part of Benton's life. He felt a deep sense of duty to his church, family, friends, and community. His life was marked by a steady willingness and desire to help others.

Benton was preceded in death by his parents, Will Grundy Quarles and Margaret Haile Quarles, wife, Marjorie Quarles, son, Robert Haile Quarles, and brother, Dr. Bill Quarles.

He is survived by his brother, Thad Quarles and his wife Cleta, and his sister, Mary Margaret Cearley and her husband Ed, and many nieces and nephews.

Benton Quarles leaves behind a remarkable record of service, achievement, and devotion to others. He lived a life that made a difference. In recognition of this, the Boy Scouts of America recently honored Benton with the Good Scout Award. His passing marks the end of an era for many who knew him, but his legacy will remain in the community he served so faithfully and in the lives he influenced through a lifetime of selfless commitment.

The family extends heartfelt gratitude to Benton's devoted caregivers whose compassion sustained him in his final years. Benton considered Sue Sullivan, Christie Banker, Lisa Locke, and Shelia Hix as family.

Visitation will be on Monday from 4 pm to 7 pm at Anderson Upper Cumberland Funeral Home and Tuesday from10 am to 11am at Gainesboro First United Methodist Church. Funeral services will be held on Tuesday July 28, 2026 at 11:00 am at Gainesboro First United Methodist Church with Rev. Kathie Bowles officiating. Burial will follow in Rob Draper Memorial Cemetery.

Pallbearers will be Tyler Quarles, Rafael Quarles, Gabriel Quarles, Benton Williams, John Cearley, Adam Cearley, Eric Bartholomew, and Mark Dudney.

Honorary pallbearers are Jim Bob Montgomery, Roger Price, Rich Wilson, Ray Hanson, Dr. Doug Dycus, Donnie Elkins, and Lee Richardson.

Memorial donations may be made to Gainesboro First United Methodist Church or the charity of your choice by contacting the business office of the funeral home.

Anderson Upper Cumberland Funeral Home is in charge of arrangements. (931) 268-1550.