About four dozen supporters shared the 42nd annual Ben James Primitive Baptist Church and Cemetery fish fry luncheon October 11 that included praise for longtime volunteer Danny Tuten.
In his welcome remarks, trustee Dale Bennett praised Tuten for his “dedication in operating the sound system for the luncheons for many years. His death September 10 caused us much sadness, but his memory continues as we so appreciated what he did for the annual benefit for the cemetery.’’
Tuten was the son of fish fry founder/cemetery trustee Opal Tuten and Leroy Tuten of the Hacklebarney Community.
Prior to the welcome and blessing for the fish and chicken feast, Bennett expressed pride for the cemetery’s condition. He praised other trustees Norma Jean (Tuten) Napier, Gail (Tuten) Hargreaves and Eric Howard. Special recognition and appreciation was given to Stanley and Kasey Strickland, Diane Whitaker, Carol Bennett, Jerry Lee, who fried the fish, Ronnie Bennett, Allen Bennett, Nathan Bennett, and Pam Scalf.
Jean Bowen of Blackshear was among the first to enjoy the food at the fundraising luncheon. Photo by NICKIE CARTER
Trustee Norman Jean Tuten Napier added her praise to luncheon supporters and gave special praise to Dale and Carol Bennett, calling them, “the backbones of the event.’’ She encouraged those present to encourage young people to come join the fish fry benefit team, “helping to keep the historic Ben James Cemetery as special and perfectly landscaped as possible.’’
It was noted the late Opal Moore Tuten is lauded as the originator of the cemetery upkeep, seeing the grounds were kept neat with mowing and the picturesque setting enhanced by planting trees and shrubbery. She was joined by her late brother, Deacon Edgar Moore, and his wife, Jean — also a trustee — in starting the fish fry luncheon.
The historic church was built in 1884. The present dining hall was added in later years.
Graves inside the fenced cemetery date many years. It is believed many of the county’s founding fathers are buried in the cemetery including Ben James V.
A special highlight of the afternoon was the judging of the third annual dessert contest. This occasion featured 12 entries with Emily Robbins taking the top prize for her strawberry pie.
Those wishing to donate toward the cemetery’s upkeep may send checks to Ben James Cemetery Trust, in care of Dale Bennett, 507 W. Blackshear Avenue, Waycross, 31501.
