Benjamin H. Garrity

1936 - 2026

Benjamin H. Garrity

June 30, 1936 - March 15, 2026

Richland, Washington - Ben H. Garrity, age 89, of Richland, WA passed away peacefully on March 15, 2026, surrounded by his family.

Ben was born on June 30, 1936, in Anaconda, Montana, and spent the majority of his life in the Tri-Cities area, where he built deep roots and lasting connections. From an early age, he developed a love for the outdoors and remained an avid fisherman and sports enthusiast throughout his life. He grew up on the family homestead, and his parents ran an ice cream store, which fueled his love for ice cream. He loved all things fly fishing, basketball, golfing, singing and playing guitar.

Ben served his country in the United States Naval Reserve, and worked for many years as a Pipefitter and project manager for Westinghouse. He was a member of a bowling league, pool league, and cribbage league, and also was involved with Pasco Gun Club, Prairie Shufflers, and spent many hours helping with Meals on Wheels and Altar Society Ministries. He was caretaker for his wife Barbara as she dealt with brain cancer complications over her last 12 years. He was known for sharing his strong work expertise throughout his career, earning the respect of colleagues and friends alike.

Family was at the center of Ben's life. He cherished time spent with loved ones, creating memories through family gatherings, shared meals, family vacations near and far, and making family home movies that will be treasured for generations. Ben was known for his plethora of jokes and card tricks. He took great pride in his children and grandchildren, always offering support, humor, and guidance. Seeing the accomplishments of his children and grandchildren was one of Ben's greatest joys. He taught them all to ride bicycles, drive, maintain vehicles, waterski, fly fish, hunt, and encouraged his family to follow their own passions and interests in their own lives.

Ben was actively involved in his community and maintained memberships with local organizations and his church, reflecting his commitment to fellowship and service. He was a devoted member of Christ the King Church, where he was involved with the Knights of Columbus. He was also known for his adventurous spirit, traveling to places such as Montana, Canada, Mexico, Alaska, Olympic Peninsula, Boston, Hawaii and Denver, often in pursuit of fishing and outdoor recreation with the whole family.

He is survived by his five children: Ben (Cherie) Garrity, Bill (Debbie) Garrity, Randy Garrity, Melissa (Paul) Barnes, and Melanie (Ken) Bower, his four grandchildren: Jessica (Andy) Thackaberry, Andrew (Hilary) Garrity, Rylan (Bex) Montgomery, and Amanda Montgomery, and his five great-grandchildren, all of whom will remember him for his warmth, resilience, and unwavering love.

Ben was preceded in death by his parents, Ben and Betty Garrity, his three sisters: Barbara Mickleson, Shirley Allan, and Virginia Nelson, and his wife Barbara Garrity.

He will be deeply missed and fondly remembered by all who knew him. Ben's legacy lives on through the lives he touched and the memories he helped create.

A Recitation of the Rosary will be held on Saturday, March 28th, 2026, at 10:15am, with Mass of Christian Burial following at 11:00am, at Christ the King Catholic Church, 1111 Stevens Dr, Richland, WA. Private Inurnment to follow at a later date at Sunset Memorial Gardens, Richland, WA.