Benny Lee McRae

Benny Lee McRae, born to the late John Poole and the late Louise McRae was born on August 24, 1950 in Baltimore, Maryland.  As a young child, Benny was raised by Napoleon and Blannie Doyle who lovingly cared for him until he reached adulthood.

At an early age, Benny practiced the Baptist faith as well as throughout his adult life.

Benny was educated in the Baltimore City Public School System.  He attended high school at Forest Park Senior High and was on the varsity football team.  Benny and his football team mates went on to win the State championship in 1968.  Benny was known to his team mates as “The Silent Warrior.”  After graduating from high school, Benny joined and became an Airman in the United States Navy during the Vietnam War Era. 

After Benny came home from the Navy, he met the love of his life, Beverly.  Benny and Beverly were married for 51 glorious years.  From this union they had their daughter, Shannon.  

He was employed by Bethlehem Steel Corporation as a Steelworker and retired after 34 years of service.  After retiring from Bethlehem Steel Corporation, Benny wasn’t yet tired.  He went on to work for Wachs Water Services as a Crew Chief for 18 years and retired in 2021.  Everyone who knew him, knew that he loved to work, especially at Wachs.  During the course of his work career he would work over time, work during snow storms, work when others couldn’t make to work, you name it.  He was always there because he loved providing for his family and he honestly loved what he did.

Benny loved his family.  He was so proud of his daughter, his grandsons and his great-grandchildren.  He didn’t like to venture out a lot during his older years, but he loved going to the Maryland Live Casino.  He called that his “Happy Place.”  He enjoyed playing Black Jack, slots, and the “Big Wheel.”  When he was just relaxing at home with Beverly, he would play slot games on his tablet.  He loved his tablet.  Benny exemplified the meaning of “Family Man.”  

He was always there for anything if he was needed.  He was stern, but loving, a “Gentle Giant.”  He was funny and sometimes had a dry sense of humor.  Benny was always willing to lend a helping hand.  

God called Benny home suddenly on September 15, 2022.  He leaves to cherish his memory: his wife, Beverly T. McRae; his daughter, Shannon Z. McRae; his grandsons, Brandon J. McRae and Keith D. McRae; his great-granddaughters, Tayla J. McRaeand Peyton B. McRae; his great-grandsons, Jalen C. McRae and Kenzo D. McRae; his sisters, Evelyn Doyle and Katie McRae; his sister in-law, Ruth Jackson; his nieces, Chante Pierce (Troy), Keila Law, Tarsha McCrae, Tiffany Law, and Patreka White; his nephew, Floyd Law and a host of great-nieces, great-nephews, family and friends.  He will be truly missed.

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