Benjamin Wesley "Benny" Atha Sr.

Benjamin Atha, Sr. Obituary Benjamin "Benny" Wesley Atha, Sr. departed this earthly plane on Thursday, June 26th, 2025, leaving an irreparable void in the hearts of his extensive family & friends that love him. Benny was born on September 5th, 1938, in Powellton, West Virginia. He grew up during a time of immense economic struggle, both locally and nationally, which led to him eventually leaving high school early to financially provide for his family during their time of need. Throughout his life, Benny encompassed this patriarchal role with security, dependability & leadership, and without question, provided for those that he loved, and even those whom he did not know, as he sensed an innate duty to always help those in need.
Benny is survived by the love of his life, his beloved wife of 61 years, Dolores Wright Atha. Benny & Dolores built a life of their dreams together while building a beautiful family that branches across generations. Benny served seven years in the United States Army Reserves, where he was honorably discharged shortly before the war in Vietnam. He retired as a Tractor Trailer Driver at Ryder/PIE Nationwide. Benny was involved in the development of Calvary Temple in the Williamsport community. Through his experience, Benny contributed in many ways, especially coordinating housing for homeless individuals & families. He found mentorship through Reverend Miles, who was instrumental in bringing Benny closer to God & his faith.
Benny is also survived by his four children his daughter, Cathy Watkins (William), and his three sons Tommy Atha (Rich), Mark Atha, Matt Atha (Michele), and close family friend, Larry Baker.
In addition, he is survived by his sisters Linda Kauffman (Greg), Janet Cosgrove, Judy Alvarado, Al Alvarado, Rosa Sours, and John Atha (Caroline). As well as his cherished grandchildren; Brittani Watkins (Barry), Kati Kimble (Skylar), Jordan Weaver (Mikhael), Benjamin Atha III (Aristie), Ceara Atha (Bryant), Thomas Atha (Taylor), Tyler Atha (Will), Madison Atha, his great-grandchildren, Trevor and Wesley Kimble, and numerous nieces & nephews, as well as his canine companion, Dukie.
In addition to his parents, Ben and Garnett Atha, he was predeceased by his wifes parents, Betty and James Wright, his brothers, James, Charles, and Danny, his sister, Joanna, and his grandson, Anthony Atha.
A solemn man who often displayed a traditional Irish stoic smile, Benny was fiercely loyal and devotedly affectionate to those close to his heart you truly felt like you were stepping into the warmth of the sun while in his presence. He was a man of his word, stern in his morality and ethics, heroic in nature and epitomized the phrase "to give a man the shirt off of his back." Without doubt or hesitation, Benny would always step up to do the right thing.
He was a jack of all trades, and according to most, a master of all. Benny was a carpenter and loved to build things with his hands. He was always working on home improvement projects to provide a proud and happy home for all his family to enjoy. His grandchildren fondly remember how involved and thoughtful of a grandfather he was Benny lived to see his children and grandchildren smile, and could often be found outside with them, whether it was pushing them on a tire swing, swimming together, or hauling them around on a wagon attached to a tractor, he was ever-present and dedicated to their happiness.
Benny was the embodiment of an altruistic soul. He was an avid animal lover and adopted many animals over the years, including his adored Barney & Dukie. He sincerely loved Gospel music and sharing his music with others.
An Irish proverb denotes "death leaves a heartache no one can heal, love leaves a memory no one can steal," Benny was the zenith of love, and he will never be forgotten.
A service will be held at the Osborne Funeral Home, P.A. 425 S. Conococheague St. Williamsport, Maryland on Wednesday, July 2nd, 2025 at 11:00 am with Kevin Smoot officiating. Visitation will be held 1 hour prior to the service from 10:00 11:00 am. Burial will follow at Greenlawn Cemetery. A celebration of Bennys life will be scheduled at a later date. Any donations can be made to Berkeley County, West Virginia SPCA. To plant a beautiful memorial tree in memory of Benjamin, please visit our Tree Store.