In memoriam: Benjamin Tarbutton Jr.

The Sandersville Railroad Co. announced the death of Benjamin Tarbutton Jr., the Georgia short line's former president. He was 90.

Tarbutton worked for Sandersville Railroad for 65 years until the time of his death. During his tenure, he served not only as president, but also as vice president and director. Additionally, his railroad career included service as a director of the American Short Line Railroad Association and founder and president of the Georgia Railroad Association, according to an online obituary.

Tarbutton co-founded B-H Transfer Co. in 1971. He also was involved in managing his timberland holdings. His extensive community involvement included serving as a member of the Technical College System of Georgia for 25 years.

Tarbutton is survived by his wife, Nancy; children Anne Tarbutton Mori, Rosa Tarbutton Sumter and Ben Tarbutton III; and seven grandchildren. Son Ben is the current president of Sandersville Railroad and a member of the American Short Line and Regional Railroad Association's board.