John Benjamin (Benny) Alvarez Sr., of Kingsland, Ga., passed away peacefully December 21, 2019 surrounded by his family at his home.
Benny was born August 13, 1947 in Fernandina Beach, Fla. to Carrie Jones Alvarez and Albert Castro “Ybor” Alvarez. He graduated from Fernandina Beach High School in 1966, lettering in all sports. He went to Gulf Coast Junior College and Middle Tennessee State University on baseball scholarships. Upon graduation from MTSU in 1970, he coached two years at Clay County High School before morning back to Fernandina Beach to coach baseball at his alma mater. A couple of years later, he became the director of Parks & Recreation in Fernandina Beach. During his tenure, he started numerous programs: Buddy League baseball, Buddy League basketball, girls softball, and tennis lessons. He was able to continue his love of coaching baseball – Little League, Senior League, and Big League, where he coached the team to the Big League World Series. The team finished fourth in the world.
Upon retirement, Benny played on the Senior Golf Tour for five years, then went on to be a golf instructor at Laurel Island Links, which is what he did until he was not physically able. Regardless of what he was coaching, he was always the mentor, coach, and friend. Many say he is a legend, “Swing by Alvarez.”
Before meeting Harriet in 1993, Benny was married to Tricia Scarboro, with whom he raised two wonderful children, John B. (Bo) Alvarez Jr. and Tricia Alvarez Parkin. They maintained a good relationship and embraced their new unique, blended families.
Benny’s zest for life was contagious. He loved his wife and family beyond measure, along with his Florida Gators.
Benny was preceded in death by his father, Albert Castro “Ybor” Alvarez; his mother, Carrie Jones Alvarez; and his sister, Delores Strickland.
He is survived by his wife of 25 years, Harriet Waters Alvarez; son, John B. (Bo) Alvarez Jr. (Darcy); daughter, Tricia Alvarez Parkin; grandchildren, John B. Alvarez III, Palmer Alvarez, Hogan Alvarez, Ryley Parkin, Avery Parkin, and Libby Alvarez; great-grandson, John B. Alvarez IV; sister, Rita Gray (Colin); brother, Sammy Alvarez; mother-in-law, Dorcas Waters; sister-in-law, Marla Waters Phillips (Brent); and many nieces and nephews.
A celebration of his life will be held at 5 p.m. Friday, January 3, 2020 at the Laurel Island Links driving range and clubhouse, located at 233 Marsh Harbour Parkway in Kingsland.
Memorials may be given to Epiphany Anglican Church at 110 Monticello Drive, Kingsland, GA 31548.