Benny Boatwright, age 88, of Sarasota, Fl. passed away October 24, 2009 in Sarasota. He was born November 1, 1920 in Sarasota to Manuel David and Mattie Taylor Boatwright. Benny retired from the General Telephone and Electric as a cable splicer after 30 years of faithful service. He was a lifetime member of the V. F. W., Arcadia Post 2824. He was a veteran of the U. S. Air Force, serving during WWII. Benny enjoyed gardening and fishing. He served with the Sarasota Sheriff s Auxiliary when he was a young man. Benny especially enjoyed spending quality time with his children and grandchildren. Survivors are his son; Terry (Sally) Boatwright, Denton, TX, daughter: Paulette (Robert) Arnold, Osprey, Fl.; four grandchildren and nine great grandchildren. Benny was preceded in death by his beloved wife Alma in 2008. Benny and Alma had celebrated 62 years of marriage. Funeral services will be held at 10:00AM, Thursday, October 29, 2009 from the First Baptist Church of Osprey, Osprey, Fl. Burial will follow in the Sarasota Memorial Park Cemetery, Sarasota, Fl. with the Veterans Honor Guard rendering Military Honors at the cemetery. Online condolences may be made at pongerkaysgrady.com Ponger-Kays-Grady Funeral Home and Cremation Services is in charge of arrangements.