Benjamin Franklin Beers, Jr., age 74, of Sardis, died Monday May 14, 2012. He was preceded in death by his mother and father, Mr. and Mrs. Benjamin Franklin Beers, Sr. of Tyler. He is survived by his wife of 52 years, Margaret Anne Hain Beers, sister Quintilla Beers Wood, sons Val Hain Beers (Deeann), Benjamin Franklin Beers, III (Dawn), Edward Moore Hain Beers (Teresa), and daughter Leah Beers Abele (Chris); 14 grandchildren: Benjamin Franklin Beers, IV, Edward Moore Hain Beers, Jr., Braxton Thomas Beers, William McAllister Hain Beers, Edward McAllister Beers, Charlotte Anne Abbott Beers, Mary Margaret Beers, Christopher Grant Abele, Gentry Kathleen Hunter, Bailey Noel Hunter, Amelia Tenay Hunter, John Beers Abele, Bennett Valentine Hain Beers, and Margaret Anne Abele; two nieces Laurie Wood Bramlett (Kennie) and Debbie Wood Von Kaenel.

Ben was a 1956 graduate of Albert G. Parrish High School and a 1960 graduate of The University of Alabama, where he was a member of Phi Delta Theta fraternity.

He was an active member of Church Street United Methodist Church serving in many capacities throughout the years. He was always involved in the community serving on numerous boards including: The Selma Oil Mill, John Tyler Morgan Academy, Central Alabama Farmer’s Co-op, Inc., Minter Autauga Dallas Hain Gin, Autauga Quality Cotton Association, and First Cahawba Bank.

Ben successfully managed J. B. Hain Company for almost 50 years, where he farmed numerous crops mainly cotton and cattle. He loved spending time outdoors and helping others. When asked recently what his greatest accomplishment in life was; he replied his family. He was a loving, caring husband, father, grandfather and friend, leaving behind a wonderful legacy for his family and friends.

A graveside service will be held Thursday May 17, 2012 at 11:30 a.m. at Old Live Oak Cemetery with Lawrence Brown-Service Funeral Home directing. His grandsons and son-in-law, Christopher Scott Abele will serve as pallbearers. The family will receive visitors at their home in Sardis, on Wednesday May 16th from 5:00 p.m. until 7:00 p.m.

In lieu of flowers the family request donations be made to Church Street United Methodist Church, The Pulmonary Fibrosis Foundation or one’s favorite charity.

Please visit http://www.lawrencebrownservice.com to make online condolences to the family.