John Benton Kline

John Benton Kline, age 74, of Decatur, Georgia, passed away peacefully on June 2, 2026. As heaven gained a faithful Bulldog, one can almost hear Larry Munson's familiar voice echoing at heaven's gates, welcoming another true Dawg home. While our hearts are heavy with the loss of a remarkable man, we are grateful for the memories, laughter, and love that will remain with us always.

John was born on July 19, 1951 in Brooklyn, New York, to C. Benton Kline and Mary Christine (Hicks) Kline. He grew up in Decatur and loved telling stories about his football days at Decatur High School and the adventures he had with lifelong friends. After high school, he attended the University of Georgia, where he earned a Bachelor of Business Administration in 1973. He later completed his banking certification through the University of Wisconsin Graduate School of Banking in 1984.

John enjoyed a distinguished career in banking regulation and financial services. Recognized by Marquis Who's Who as a noteworthy banking regulator, he began his professional career with the Georgia Department of Banking and Finance in Atlanta in 1973. He rose through the ranks and was appointed Deputy Commissioner in 1980. Beginning in 1984, he served as an advisory member of the Supervisory Procedures Committee of the Conference of State Bank Supervisors. He was also a president of the Society of Financial Examiners from 1985 to 1987 and taught at the University of Wisconsin's Graduate School of Banking from 1986 to 1988. 

After leaving the Georgia Department of Banking and Finance, John joined Mauldin & Jenkins before founding Kline and Associates in 1992. As CEO, he continued to work in the banking and finance regulation industry. Before retiring, he was also a member of Decatur Business Association and Decatur Rotary Club. Throughout his career, John demonstrated a deep commitment to financial regulation, education, and leadership in the banking examination community. His work helped shape state banking oversight and contributed to the professional development of financial examiners across the United States. 

While John was widely respected in the banking community, the roles he cherished most were those of husband, father, and "Papa." On June 17, 1978, John Benton Kline married the love of his life, Mary Hall, and on October 27, 1989, they completed their family when they adopted their three daughters. Some of his happiest days were spent coaching and cheering from the sidelines of his daughters' soccer games, the summer parties at the lake, taking his daughters fishing at his fishing club AKPSI, and cheering on the Dawgs.

John leaves behind a devoted and loving family who will miss him dearly: his wife of 48 years, Mary Kline; daughters Lisa Kline, Diane Roberts, Jessica Geiger; grandchildren Nathaniel Geiger, Damar Gray, Maya Geiger, and Georgia Roberts; sister, Mary Martha Riviere (Kenneth); and many beloved nieces, nephews, and friends. He was preceded in death by his parents, C. Benton and Chris Kline, and his beloved aunt, Peggy Kline.

John's legacy lives on in the family he loved, the friendships he treasured, the profession he helped shape, and the countless lives he touched along the way.