Mr. Benjamin "Bennie" Byrum, 86, of the Rock Springs Community, passed away Thursday, August 4, 2011 at Hartwell Health Care Center.

Born on October 3, 1924 in Hart County, GA, he was the son of the late Clayton Byrum and Rose Byrum.He was retired from the Hartwell Company and a member of the Rock Springs Baptist Church.

He is survived by two daughters: Lucy Brown and Nina Haley of Lavonia; one son: Walker Robertson of Hartwell; two nieces: Thelma Doker of Hartwell, and Gail Manley of Lavonia; one nephew: Dale Byrum of Lavonia; five grandchildren; and seven great-grandchildren. Mr. Byrum was preceded in death by his parents; his wife Lizzie Mae Robertson Byrum; two sons: Robert H. Robertson and William C. Robertson; and seven brothers.

Funeral services will be Sunday, August 7, 2011 at 3:00 p.m. at the Strickland Funeral Home Chapel with Rev. David Wilson and Rev. Keith McKenzie officiating. Burial will be in the Rock Springs Baptist Church Cemetery.

The body is at the Strickland Funeral Home of Hartwell, where the family will receive friends from 6:00 to 8:00 p.m. Saturday evening.The family is at the home of Mrs. Nina Haley, 113 Walters Road, Lavonia, GA 30553.

The Strickland Funeral Home of Hartwell is in charge of all arrangements.On-line condolences can be sent to the family at www.stricklandfh.com.