Ben Allen Covington

Ben Covington was born on June 24, 1926 to Paul and Gladys Covington of Garfield, Ga. After graduating from high school, he served with honor in the US Navy as a diver at Pearl Harbor among other duties. After his honorable discharge in 1947, he met and married Mary Helen Davis.

His interest in all things involving mechanics led him back to school to obtain numerous certifications in large equipment repair and maintenance. His most enjoyable time was spent in his home shop re-engineering tools to make them function better. His love of creating things evolved into obtaining his pilot’s license and eventually building and flying his own plane. He truly loved his occupation both at work and at home.

After retirement he continued to build and improve equipment as his home shop grew in size with every passing year.

He adored his three grandchildren and three great grandchildren and loved spending time with them teaching them to drive a tractor, weld and make repairs and improvements.

He was an active member of Fellowship Baptist Church and faithfully attended services until failing health made it impossible for him to attend. It can truly be said of Ben that he loved his God, country, family and shop.

He is survived by his two children: Linda Covington Gregory, Joe Edward Covington (Deborah),his grandchildren: Katherine Lee(Caleb), Travis Covington (Marianne), and Jake Covington (Jana); and his three great grandchildren: Emma, Luke, and Luci Covington along with many extended family, friends, nurses, and church members whose lives he has touched over the past 95 years.

A memorial service will be held at Elliot’s Funeral Home (Martinez) at 1 pm Saturday, February 12.