Benjamin Frank McKinney

 

Mr. Benjamin “Ben” Frank McKinney, age 63 of Clemmons passed away Sunday, December 24, 2023 at the Kate B. Reynolds Hospice Home.  He was born September 11, 1960 in Johnson City, TN to the late Earnest Earl McKinney and Regina Mottern McKinney.

He is preceded in death by his parents and one brother, Todd McKinney.  He is survived by his partner and the love of his life, Trina Bedsaul of the home; two daughters, Brittany McKinney (Taryne) of Starkville, MS and Stephanie McKinney (Kyle Willard) of Advance; one grandchild, Lincoln McKinney; one sister, Keitha Thomas (Jeff) of Florida and ‘the boys’.

Ben had a successful career as a commercial insurance agent, but his heart and passion was in coaching.  Football and basketball came first, but then he found his passion coaching his daughters in softball. Eventually he was able to devote his attention to coaching full time. He has coached hundreds of girls through the years and made a huge impact that will not be forgotten. He won a state championship while coaching at Forsyth Country Day School.  And while at East Forsyth High School he took the team to two 4-A state championships.

Ben’s heart was as golden as his love for retrievers. His passion for life was reflected in his love for the Chicago Bears, college football and collecting memorabilia for his beloved man cave. Ben’s adventurous spirit and love for travel cultivated memories and shared experiences with loved ones that will be remembered forever. His laughter echoed joyously in the company of family and friends. His legacy will live on in the hearts of those he touched leaving behind a legacy of love, laughter and a deep appreciation for the bonds that connect us all.

A funeral service will be conducted at 11:00 AM Saturday, December 30, 2023 at Hayworth-Miller Kinderton Chapel by longtime friend Steve Hallyburton. Burial will follow in Westlawn Gardens of Memory.  The family will receive friends following the service.  In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to the Triad Golden Retriever Rescue, https://tgrr.org/ or Trellis Supportive Care. https://www.trellissupport.org/content/ways-give