The Flip Side of Bennie

Cousin Bennie loved to play harmless practical jokes.

For instance: When I was visiting Charleston from San Francisco and went out to dinner with Bennie and his wife, Claire, he introduced me to the receptionist and waiter as Jacques Breibart. a famous French chef from San Francisco. I strung along with the charade which went so far that the restaurant's chef came out to talk with me. At that point, Bennie confessed.

He also liked to call me on the phone and identify himself as Willard Silcox, long-time tennis, basketball coach and athletic director at Bennie's beloved College of Charleston, inviting me to basketball team reunion. Bennie had such a distinctive Charleston accent that I was on to him after a couple of words.

Bennie was a very good athlete. I think he played basketball for the College of Charleston and was a top-notch softball third baseman for the AZA teams.

I visited with Bennie in April at his care facility in Summerville with nephew Barry. Bennie was in good humor. We spent a lot of time reminiscing about the College and sports and trying to remember things. When I came up with an answer to something, Bennie would put on his lawyerly voice and say, "You are absolutely right," one of his favorite expresiions.

Bennie recommended a book to me, "The Cigar Factory" by Michele Moore."Best book about Charleston ever," Bennie said. I've taken his advice. If you're interested in Charleston history and the Geechee-Gullah culture, pick it up.

Bennie will be missed,

--Jack


Bennie and Claire in Summerville in April

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

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