Benny Ray was born on October 17, 1963 to Norman and Marjorie Beard. He began his pipeline career at age 16, joining his Dad on the road. He quickly became known as "The Drifter" always traveling from one job to the next and leaving an impression on the many crews who worked with him. His adventures are legendary and nothing short of hilarious.

After working many years on the road, he found his soul mate and bride, Becky. They married on September 9, 2000 and enjoyed over 25 years together. They shared a love of four-legged, side-kicks and always had a dog or two with them. Becky captured his heart, and he will forever love her.

A man of many talents, Benny enjoyed building model cars and hot rods over the years. He tagged everything he owned with his "Wildside Racing" logo and enjoyed showing everyone his toy collections and unique fabrications. He thoroughly enjoyed entertaining the neighborhood with his elaborate Halloween themes and would be in full costume handling out tons of candy for the kids.

Benny deeply loved his family and always found ways to make everyone happy. With his big heart, he was loving, protective, and cherished by all. He was never short on words and always captured everyone's attention with his hilarious and crazy stories. It's those memories that will be shared over and over.

This legendary man impacted so many and will be dearly missed. Words cannot explain how extraordinary he was.

Benny is survived by his wife, Becky Beard of Amarillo; 3 daughters, Shonda Houston and husband John of Jeffersonville, IN, Jennifer Montgomery of Amarillo and Kim Akins and husband Jay of Amarillo; 4 siblings, Cathy Wheeler of Amarillo, Brenda Loveday and husband Doyce of Amarillo, Charles Beard of Amarillo and Alisha Beard of Amarillo; grandchildren, Bentley, Courtney, Carleigh, Landon, Daniel, Ashlynn, Kinley and L.J; great grandchild, Bristol Raye Thomas; his beloved dogs, Button and Blossum and many niece, nephews, cousins and Godchildren left to cherish his memory.

He was preceded in death by his parents and his sister, Rhonda Matthews.