Approximately 45 appreciative supporters shared the 42nd annual Ben James Primitive Baptist Church and Cemetery fundraiser fish luncheon Oct. 11 in the church fellowship hall. Praises for the organizers of the occasion and honors to dedicated volunteer Danny Tuten highlighted the day.
Trustee Dale Bennett, in welcoming everyone, praised Danny Tuten for “his dedication in operating the sound system for the luncheons for many years. His death Sept. 10, 2025, caused us much sadness, but his memory continues as we so appreciated what he did for the annual benefit for the cemetery.’’ Danny was the son of wellknown Ben James members fish fry founder/trustee Opal Tuten and Leroy Tuten of Hacklebarney Community.
Prior to the welcome and blessing for the fish and chicken feast, Bennett expressed his pride for the cemetery upkeep. He praised other trustees Norma Jean (Tuten) Napier, Gail (Tuten) Hargreaves and Eric Howard. Special recognition and appreciation was given: Stanley and Kasey Strickland, Diane Whitaker, Carol Bennett, Jerry Lee, who fried the fish; Ronnie Bennett, Allen Bennett, Nathan Bennett and Pam Scalf.
