Benny Lee Tingler, age 80, of 1309 South Patrick Avenue, Covington, Virginia, died Wednesday, June 13, 2012 at his residence.

He was born February 21, 1932 in Covington, Virginia, to the late George Dewey and Lucille Elizabeth Ann Grady Tingler.

He served in the United States Army during the Korean War and was a retired foreman for Hercules.

While there, he worked in the Lab and Film Production and Fiber Production departments.

He was currently attending First Christian Church of Covington and was a former member of Emmanuel Episcopal Church. He was a member of the Covington Moose Lodge, the Triple Springs Hunt Club, and the Curtis A Smith VFW Post 1033.

He loved to cook, and loved the outdoors, hunting, fishing, and gardening.

He will be remembered for his generosity.

In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his wife, Rebecca Anne Hamilton Tingler in 2006; a brother, George Lewis Tingler; and a sister, Mary Elizabeth Doss.

He is survived by two daughters, Teresa Lawson and husband, Roy of Morgantown, WV, and Carolyn A. Tingler-Smith and husband, Lee of Clifton Forge; three grandchildren, Benjamin Lawson, Elizabeth Smith and fiance, Matt Crush, and Rebecca Smith; a number of nieces and nephews; and special friends, Carol Hallet and Wayne Angel.

The family would like to thank special caregivers, Pattye Ford, Cassie Scott, and Carol Taylor for their care and support. In keeping with his wishes, his body has been cremated.

A memorial service was held on Saturday, June 16, 2012 at 2:00 p.m. in the chapel of Nicely Funeral Home, Clifton Forge with Reverend Bill Gilliland officiating. Military rites were conducted at the service by members of the Curtis A. Smith VFW Post 1033. Interment followed in Shiloh Cemetery, Botetourt County. The family received friends on Saturday from 12:30 p.m. until the time of service at Nicely Funeral Home and other times at the residence of Carolyn and Lee Smith, 3708 Longdale Furnace Road, Clifton Forge. The family suggests memorial tributes take the form of contributions to the We Honor Our Veterans Program, C/O Mountain Regional Hospice, P. O. Box 637, Clifton Forge, VA 24422.