In Memory of a Friend and CoWorker…

Benny Bean

1947—2009

We mourn the loss of our friend and coworker, Benny Bean, who lost his battle with lung cancer on September 28, 2009.  Benny served as the Association’s Wastewater Technician for the past 2 ½ years but had many years previous experience in wastewater operations with Lanett Wastewater Utilities, Veolia Water, as well as other wastewater systems.  While with the Alabama Rural Water Association Benny worked primarily with wastewater systems on the west side of the State from North to South.  He was very knowledgeable in wastewater operations and regulations.  It was evident each day that he loved his work and the opportunity to help and serve others.  Benny possessed a rare quality that we don’t find as often as we would like.  “Benny welcomed the opportunity to work, to travel and to accomplish as much as possible during an 8 hour day”.  He anxiously made visits with the wastewater systems throughout the State and was eager to offer training and technical assistance to wastewater utility personnel.  Benny offered good sound advice and guidance for wastewater managers or operators to use in resolving problem situations or improving upon management strategies.

Benny will be missed by all of us at the ARWA and I know by all you who knew Benny as well.

~

“Benny Ray Bean,62, died Monday, Sept. 28, 2009 at Bethany House in Auburn, Ala. after a brief illness.  Mr. Bean was born in Shannon, Lee County, Miss., on April 29, 1947 to the late Henry Lee Bean, Sr. and Dorothy May Bean.  He grew up in Okolona graduating from Okolona High School in 1965.  He received an associate’s degree from Itawamba Junior College.  He had lived in Tupelo several years and had resided in Opelika, Ala. the last six years.  A Baptist, Benny loved to be outdoors and enjoyed hunting and fishing, growing plants and coin collecting.  His greatest gift was his granddaughters, Taylor and Marli, whom he dearly loved and were a blessing in his life.”

Survivors include his wife:  Jane Summers Bean of Opelika, Ala.; two sons:  Scott Bean and wife, Lori of Harvest, Ala. and Jason Bean of Gulf Shores, Ala.  his grandchildren:  Taylor and Marli Bean.  His brothers:  Henry L. Bean (Linda) of Sharpsburg, Ga., Donald W. Bean (Marcie) of Lagrange, Ga. and Robert D. Bean of Fort Wayne Indiana.  His sisters in law:  Elizabeth Beasley (J.W.) and Brenda Summers all of Fulton.  His nieces and nephews:  Barbara Morykwas (Michael), Chris Bean (Danielle), Shaun Bean and Rhonda Esp (Art).