John Benjamin Alvarez, SR (Benny), of Kingsland, passed away peacefully surrounded by his family at his home on December 21, 2019. A celebration of his life will be held on Friday, January 3rd, 2020 at 5 pm at Laurel Island Links driving range, and clubhouse located at 233 Marsh Harbour Parkway in Kingsland, Georgia. Benny was born in Fernandina Beach Florida on August 13, 1947, to Carrie Jones Alvarez and Albert Castro 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 2 years at Clay County High School before moving back to Fernandina Beach to coach baseball at his alma mater. A couple of years later he became the director of Parks and 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, where they finished 4th in the world. Upon retirement, Benny played on the Senior Golf Tour for 5 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 they 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 was preceded in death by his father, Albert Castro Alvarez, his mother, Carrie Jones Alvarez, and 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, Libby Alvarez, and 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. Benny's zest for life was contagious, he loved his wife and family beyond measure, and can not mention his love of the Florida Gators. Memorials may be given to Epiphany Anglican Church, mailing address 110 Monticello Drive, Kingsland, GA 31548