Obituaries

(Ret.) Bennie McFather

Lt. Col. (Ret.) Bennie Snow McFather, 86, of Ooltewah, went home to be with the Lord Thursday, Mar. 7, 2019, in a local healthcare facility. He was born July 24, 1932, in Cuthbert, Ga. to the late Ben Daniel & Nellie Snow McFather. He served in the ROTC and graduated Magna Cum Laude from Mercer University with a Bachelor of Arts Degree. He also attended Lowell Technological Institute in Massachusetts. Bennie spent two tours of duty in Vietnam and retired after 22 years where he proudly served in the United States Army. As a result, he became a Disabled Veteran. He received numerous awards and commendations, including the Bronze Star, during his Army career. He also retired from British Petroleum Alaska following 11 years of service. He loved Alaska and to travel with his family. His adventures included cruises, piloting his own plane and boat, camping, and fishing, as well as exploring historical places. These many memories will be missed by his family. Bennie was a longtime member of Woodland Park Baptist Church and the Agape Sunday School Class. His son, Mike McFather, his brother, Carl McFather and his sister, Margaret Yochum preceded him in death. Survivors include his loving wife of 65 years, Betty Longenecker McFather; daughter and son- in-law, Pam & Josh Witte of Georgetown, Tenn.; son and daughter-in-law, Bob & Kevin McFather of Acworth, Ga.; daughter-in-law, Darla McFather of Cleveland, Tenn.; four grandchildren, Brendon Witte and Brett Witte of Georgetown, Tenn.; Tyler McFather and Maggie McFather of Acworth, Ga.; and many nieces and nephews. Funeral service will be held Wednesday, Mar. 13, 2019, at 1 p.m. in the East Brainerd Chapel with Pastor Bruce Daugherty officiating. The family will receive friends one hour prior to the service at the funeral home. Interment will follow at Chattanooga National Cemetery with full Military Honors. Arrangements are by the East Brainerd Chapel of Chattanooga Funeral Home, Crematory & Florist, 8214 East Brainerd Road, Chattanooga, Tenn. 37421. Please share your thoughts and memories at www.ChattanoogaEastBrainerdChapel.com.

Published March 10, 2019

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