Family and friends of the late Benny East gathered in Rockwood Saturday, March 21, 2026 for the official dedication of the Benny East Glen Alice Convenience Center. According to his obituary, Mr. East was a veteran of the U.S. Marine Corps and an Ironworker with Local #384 and owner of East Ditch-witching. Once he retired from the Ironworkers, he continued to work for the Roane County Solid Waste Department where he operated the Convenience Center in Glen Alice for 35 years. He also served as a Roane County Commissioner for 24 years and was an avid supporter of the emergency services and all of the Volunteer Fire Departments. Benny East passed away in December 2025 at age 87. The Benny East Glen Alice Convenience Center stands as a lasting tribute to his legacy of public service to Roane County. (Photos courtesy Roane County Government)
