National Board Announces Passing of
Past Board of Trustees Chairman and
Retired North Carolina Director
Bennie Whitley

It is with deep sadness the National Board announces the November 25 passing of past National Board Chairman and retired North Carolina Boiler and Pressure Vessel Division Director Bennie L. Whitley. He was 81.

Mr. Whitley served nine years in the Merchant Marines and two years with the US Army before joining the North Carolina boiler and pressure vessel program, in 1956. After 30 years with the state, he retired July 31, 1986, and joined the National Board field staff.

"Ben Whitley was a dedicated and highly respected member of the boiler and pressure vessel industry," explains National Board Acting Executive Director Richard Allison. "Few could match his professionalism and commitment to safety. Since his retirement from North Carolina, Ben remained a welcome participant at board of trustees meetings and member functions. We extend our sincere condolences to the entire Whitley family for their loss."

The Nash County, North Carolina, native received National Board Commission No. 4451 in September of 1957. Upon assuming supervision of his division, Mr. Whitley became a member of the National Board in the fall of 1973. He was first elected to the Board of Trustees (then called the National Board Executive Committee) in 1978 and served until 1986. The retired North Carolina official and Honorary National Board Member served from 1983 to 1985 as board chairman.

Mr. Whitley is survived by his wife Janice, daughter Dara, and son Sterling.