Benny Whitehead Inc. founder has passed away
It is with sadness we share the news of the passing of longtime ATA member and industry supporter Benny Whitehead, who died peacefully Tuesday, August 30, 2022, with his wife and family by his side.
Mr. Whitehead was the founder of Benny Whitehead Inc., a family-owned trucking company and freight carrier based in Eufaula, Ala. operating from the Southeast to the West Coast hauling refrigerated and dry goods for more than 50 years. By all accounts, he was one of a kind and will be greatly missed by all who knew him.
Former ATA Chairman and current Board Member Gary Bond said Mr. Whitehead leaves an amazing legacy of a wonderful family and a long career as a trucking leader who touched many lives.
“Benny was a true friend of mine for many years, and I feel fortunate I had the opportunity to spend quality time with him. His life was devoted to faith, family, and trucking.”
Bond adds that Whitehead was a master at getting the most from his equipment through constant experimentation. “He could get more miles out a gallon of fuel than just about anybody. He was a brilliant businessman.”
ATA Vice President of Safety & Compliance Tim Frazier knew Mr. Whitehead for more than two decades, and during that time also came to appreciate Mr. Whithead’s talent and obsession with getting the most from his equipment.
“He was one of the most knowledgeable vehicle specifications men I’ve ever been aquatinted with in my many years in trucking,’ he said. “Our conversations eventually shifted to truck maintenance and vehicle specs. I remember one conversation that lasted for at least an hour comparing specs for tires and fuel mileage. He was incredibly knowledgeable. He knew specs better than a lot of the vendor engineers.”
A celebration of his life is set for Friday, Sept. 2 at First Assembly of God, 240 State Docks Road in Eufaula, Ala. Lunch will be served at 11 a.m. with visitation from noon to 1:50 pm and service immediately following. The family invites current and former employees and drivers, as well as his many industry friends to attend.
