Benny Doyle Crocker

CW4 Benny Doyle Crocker (United States Army Retired), passed away peacefully on April 8, 2025, at Oakview Manor in Ozark, Alabama, at the age of 92. A devoted soldier, public servant, and family man, he lived a life marked by courage, dedication, and unwavering faith.

Born on January 23, 1933, in Poplarville, Mississippi, Mr. Crocker was the son of Perry and Mattie (Tyner) Crocker. From humble beginnings in southern Mississippi, he would go on to serve his country with distinction across multiple continents and decades.

Mr. Crocker’s military career was both extensive and exemplary. Serving as a member of the First Cavalry Division and Rising to the rank of Chief Warrant Officer 4, he served with honor through some of the most pivotal moments in modern history. His service included two tours in Germany—one during its occupation following World War II—three tours in Vietnam, one tour in Thailand, and deployments during both the Korean War and the occupation of Japan.

As a standardization pilot for much of his aviation career, Mr. Crocker played a critical role in shaping Army aviation training. He trained numerous Army generals to fly military aircraft through the short course at Fort Rucker and ultimately served as the last commander of the CH-54 Crane Flight there. Among his many acts of valor was a daring rescue mission as pilot of a CH-54 Skycrane: after an Air Force jet crew had been rescued by a Jolly Green Giant helicopter that was subsequently shot down, Mr. Crocker flew in to recover the downed aircraft and crew. For this act of heroism, he was authorized for both the Silver Star and Distinguished Flying Cross—though they were never formally awarded. His military decorations include the Purple Heart, Master Aviator Badge, Bronze Star Medal, Army Commendation Medal, among numerous others—each a testament to his bravery and skill.

Following his retirement from active duty, Mr. Crocker continued his dedication to public service. He served as safety inspector for the Mississippi Army Ammunition Plant-Mason Chamberlain, worked as a policeman with the Picayune Police Department in Mississippi, and later held the role of Chief Deputy of the Reserve Force for the Pearl River County Sheriff’s Department.

Throughout all chapters of his life—military or civilian—Mr. Crocker remained grounded by his deep Christian faith. As a member of Calvary Baptist Church, he gave all credit and glory to his Lord Jesus Christ for sustaining him through trials and triumphs alike. Mr. Crocker was also a member of Masonic Lodge # 445 , Carriere, MS and Daleville Masonic Lodge # 903.

He is survived by his beloved wife of 73 years, Johnnie Faye Crocker; sons Benny D. Crocker Jr., of Mobile (Semmes), Alabama; Johnny D. Crocker (Penny) of San Antonio, Texas; daughter Cynthia J. Brabham (Joe) of Enterprise, Alabama; grandchildren Amanda Auld (Allen), Holly Ureste (Mark), William Crocker, Christopher Crocker (Beatriz), John Brabham, and Robert Brabham; great-grandchildren Jory, Blayn, Henry, Gianna, Baleigh, Luke, Michael, and Layla; siblings Wanda Snyder; Jane Burge (Fred); Betty Beaudreau (Dave); Joy Voiselle (Bruce); and Camillia Pearson.

He was preceded in death by his infant son David Joseph Crocker; daughter-in-law Jenny Hart (Regas) Crocker; parents Perry and Mattie Crocker; brother Harold Crocker; sister Sylvia (Crocker) Blackwell; and brother Paul Crocker.

Mr. Benny Doyle Crocker's legacy is one of strength under pressure, generosity toward others, steadfast dedication to duty—and above all—a life lived with purpose under God’s guidance. May his memory bring comfort to those who knew him and inspiration to generations yet to come.

The family extends heartfelt gratitude to Dr. Michael Pinson of Southeast Health Cardiovascular Institute, Dr. Andy Gammill of Professional Medical Associates, and Rev. Kerry Mitchell of Calvary Baptist Church for their compassionate care and spiritual support during this time.

Visitation will be held on Sunday, April 13, 2025, from 12:30 PM to 1:00 PM at Picayune Funeral Home, located at 815 S Haugh Ave, Picayune, Mississippi, 39466. Graveside services will follow at McNeill Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, family requests donations be made to the Wounded Warrior Project or Calvary Baptist Church, 1837 Highway 51, Enterprise, AL 36330-7647 in Benny’s memory.