Ben Landreth

(From Smith Memory Chapel)

Benjamin Franklin Landreth, age 98 3/4, passed away at The Oaks-Athens on October 9, 2024. Ben was born January 20, 1926 in Carthage, MO to the late Harry Carson Landreth and the late Elma Della Pottorff Landreth. In addition to his parents he was preceded in death by a stepson, George Henson and a granddaughter, Kathy Owen.

Survivors include five children: Mary (Jay) Owen, Independence, MO, Sara (Phil) McDonald, Danielsville, GA, Linda Peppers, Winder, GA, Grace Johnson, Greenville, SC and Robert Landreth, Cumming, GA; 11 grandchildren; 23 great-grandchildren; and 1 great-great grandchild.

Ben graduated high school, served in the US Navy, and received his bachelor’s degree from Tulane University. He began a career in the garment industry as plant manager for Big Smith in Lamar, MO. He moved to the Blue Ridge, GA area to work for Levi Strauss which led him to Carwood Mfg. in Winder, GA.

While in his 70s Ben enlisted the help of several grands to set up a computer and embarked on an adventure tracing his ancestors. He was always an avid reader and card player which kept his mind sharp. Growing up during the Great Depression, Ben appreciated and finished every meal he set down to and was very creative in using what he had on hand to prepare dishes. He enjoyed every moment he was given with his loved ones. He never took the basics of this life for granted. Ben frequently offered bits of advice, a grin or stern look which ever was needed and always an “I love you, drive safe now”.

He was a member of St. Anthony’s Episcopal Church, 174 St. Anthony Drive, Winder, GA. A memorial service will be held later to celebrate his life.