George Bennie Cardwell Obituary (1933 - 2022)

MAYODAN - George Bennie Cardwell, 88, went to his heavenly home on Wednesday, February 23, 2022. Bennie was born on April 6, 1933, along with twin brother, Billie Lee to George Lawson and Nellie Lee Cardwell. Bennie was raised in the Ayersville community of Mayodan N.C. on a family farm, and graduated from Stoneville High School. He continued farming after high school and was a talented carpenter; refinishing and making furniture for his family and many others. He served in the United States Army during the Korean War and was known for building furniture on the army base. He was married on December 3, 1953 to Kay Mavis Cardwell, his wife of 62 years. Bennie was well known in the community as a father figure and mentor to many young men. He served his community and county in many capacities including an ordained deacon at Ayersville Baptist Church, active in the Ruritan's, Rockingham County Planning Board, Rockingham County Extension Service and the Rockingham County Fire-Chiefs Association. Bennie loved the fire department and served several years as fire chief for The Northwestern Rockingham County Volunteer Fire Department, retiring in 1990. He was instrumental in starting the first responder program in Rockingham County. Bennie's favorite hobby and past time was fishing. He knew the banks of the Mayo River well. He also enjoyed deep sea fishing on the NC Coast. He also enjoyed farming, gardening and reading. Bennie was preceded in death by his wife and parents. He is survived by his son, George Andrew Cardwell (Deborah); daughter, Beth Annette Cardwell Middleton (Jeff); grandchildren, Anne Marie Forrest (Kevin); Jordan Middleton (Kennedy); Elizabeth Baumann (Taylor); Gaelan Middleton; great grandchildren Connor and Lily Grace Forrest; twin brother Bill Cardwell, numerous nieces, nephews, extended family and friends. A graveside service (weather permitting) will be held on Saturday, March 12, 2022 at 2 p.m. at Ayersville Baptist Church Cemetery with military honors. A Celebration of Life will follow in the Fellowship Hall. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be directed to Ayersville Baptist Church, 310 NC Hwy 770, Mayodan, NC 27027; or The Alzheimer's Association. Colonial Funeral Home in Madison is serving the family. Condolences may be offered at www.colonialfh.net