Benjamin Franklin Coats Gutierrez, age 68 of Ducktown, passed away Sunday, Jan.20, 2013 at Erlanger Medical Center in Chattanooga of a massive heart attack following an extended stay. He was born June 23, 1944 in Yazoo City, MS to the late John N. Coats and Elizabeth Miller Coats. He was a lieutenant in the Army and served in the Vietnam War. Before retiring he was a long time truck driver and later served as Captain in the Merchant Marines, after retirement he proudly held the job of night porter at the Blue Ridge Burger King.
Ben is survived by his wife Brenda Coats of Ducktown, son, Benjamin Coats II of Redding, CA. and daughter, Vanessa Nye-Coats of McCaysville, grandchildren, Peyton and Bella Messer of McCaysville. The family will be having a private memorial service at graveside as per his wishes.
Arrangements were entrusted to the Henry-Cochran Funeral Home of Blue Ridge, GA. You may send condolences to the family and sign the guest register at www.cochranfuneralhomes.com.