Benjamin Raymond Birch
July 12, 1984 ~ January 7, 2009
Services:
A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated on Monday, January 12, 2009 at 10:00 AM in Holy Face Catholic Church, Great Mills, MD. Interment will follow in the church cemetery.
Visitation:
The family will receive friends on Sunday, January 11, 2009 from 2:00-5:00 PM in the Mattingley-Gardiner Funeral Home where prayers will be said at 3:00 PM.
Benjamin Raymond “Ben” Birch, 24 of Piney Point, MD died January 7, 2009 at his residence. Born July 12, 1984 in Leonardtown, MD he was the son of Agnes Elizabeth Goddard Birch of Piney Point, MD and the late Lewis Theodore Birch. He is also survived by his sisters Tammy Vincena of California, MD, Mary Ruth Birch and Katie Ann Birch, both of Piney Point, MD. A lifelong resident of St. Mary’s County, Ben was a graduate of Leonardtown High School “Class of 2002” and attended Towson University. He worked as a project engineer for Patuxent River/Saver Inc. for six months. He loved fishing, hunting, crabbing and spending time on the water. He also loved spending time with his family and friends. The family will receive friends on Sunday, January 11, 2009 from 2:00-5:00 PM in the Mattingley-Gardiner Funeral Home, Leonardtown, MD where prayers will be said at 3:00 PM. A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated on Monday, January 12, 2009 at 10:00 AM in Holy Face Catholic Church, Great Mills, MD with Fr. Joseph Sileo officiating. Interment will follow in the church cemetery. Pallbearers will be Jack Garner, Joe Dyson, Ryan Sauter, Joey Tapponnier, Charles Barto and Ebenezer Longe.





“Our thoughts and prayers are with you Aggie and your family. Charlie and I are very sorry to hear of your loss. “
“Agnes, Tammy, Ruthie, and Katie, Our hearts reach out to all of you during this most difficult time. We all thought so much of Ben. The twinkle in his eye and his wonderful smile will be truly missed. May God be with you and hold you tightly. May you find comfort in your memories of him.”
“Mrs. Birch, Ruthie and Katie – Ben was a wonderful person that we all considered one of the Dysons. He will be truly missed and thought of often. All of you are in our prayers. God bless”
“Katie and family – I am so very sorry for your loss. You will all be in my thoughts and prayers.”
“Dear Mrs. Birch, Ruth, and Katie, Our prayers and thoughts are with you. May all the happy memories of the great times you shared with Ben be the strength you need to help you during this difficult time. God Bless you.”
“We all loved Ben so much he was a part of my family and I am sure he was a part of many other families. Ben was always so much fun to be around and could put a smile on all our faces. My thoughts and prayers are with all his family and friends.”
“Mrs. Birch, Ruthie and Katie- You are in my thoughts and prayers. Ben would always make it a point to say hello and give me a hug. His fun-loving spirit would always put a smile on my face. Ben was truly a great guy. “
“Agnes,Tammy,Ruthie & Katie, Though words can never say how it makes one feel, please know our prayers are with you now and always.”
“Agnes, Ruthie, and Katie- Ben was a patient, fun-loving, and kind person that will really be missed. You are all in our thoughts and prayers during this tough time. “
“I’m deeply saddened and shocked. Thinking and praying for you during this difficult time. Ben was such a kind & amazing guy and will be truly missed. May he rest in peace. “
“Mrs. Birch, Ruthie and Katie, My thoughts and prayers are with you all at this time.”
“Ben was truly a great guy! He always had a smile on his face and he definitely brightened everyone’s day that he interacted with. I will never forget Ben and his impact on my life. May he rest in peace.”
“Agnes: Thinking of you with heartfelt sympathy in this time of sorrow.”
“I am deeply sorry for everything you have had to experience in this past year. It has been a VERY difficult time. Though I am 3,000 miles away please know that I wish I could be there. I will miss my cousin very much and it is hard to think I will never see him again…….My deepest sympathy….. “
“Agnes (and Family), please know that your co-workers are thinking of you at this time and are keeping you in our thoughts and prayers. I know what you are going through so if you need anyone to talk to you, you know how to contact me. Take care.”
“I am still in a state of shock because I just spoke to Ben the week of Christmas. We met as co-workers and developed a great friendship. He will truly be missed. My thoughts & prayers go out to Ben’s family.”
“My prayers are with you. Ben was a warm hearted soul that will live on through his lasting memories.”
“Aggie and family, To me there was not a more wonderful young man. He was there for everyone who’s life he touched. I can’t tell you how much I feel your loss. There are no words left to say, so I will say prayers for you all. Lorrie”
“Aggie, Tammy, Ruthie, and Katie – Thinking of each of you and my most heartfelt sympathy to your family. Ben was a true sweetheart and brightened up anyone’s day. He will be missed. “
“Mrs. Birch, Ruthie, and Katie, my thoughts and prayers are with you at this sad time.”
“Ben was one of the nicest guys I ever met in my life. He was a guy who would positively affect everyone who ever met him. Though I only knew him a short time, I could truely call him a friend and I will never forget him. My thoughts and prayers are with his family.”
“Agnes, Ruthie and Katie- You are in our thoughts and prayers during this difficult time. We always enjoyed seeing Ben and he was very much a part of our extended family. He will be missed by all blessed enough to know him. “
“My thoughts and prayers are with the Birch family, Ben was the kind of person you dont forget in life. He was always fun to be around and I have lots of great memories. I will miss you Ben.”
“Mrs. Birch, Ruthie, and Katie – My sincerest condolences to all of you. I wasn’t blessed with being able to see Ben often since we graduated from LFS, but looking back on the 9 years we spent as classmates and friends, I have nothing but fond memories of Ben. He was such a kind soul, free spirit, and could always bring a smile to anyones face. How blessed I feel to have known him. You and your family will remain in my thoughts and prayers. “
“Ben will be missed by alot of people. He touched many hearts and will live in are hearts forever. Whenever you saw Ben he always made a point to speak and put a smile on your face.”
“Aggie and Family – Thinking of you at this difficult time and extending deep and heartfelt sympathy to each of you. May you find comfort in the memories that are yours to always cherish and strength in the companionship of those who share your loss. “
“My most heart felt sympathy to you and your family! Ben was such a thoughtful person and could always make you laugh. He will truly be missed!”
“Agnes and Family we are here for you all if there shall be anything you need and you will be in our thoughts and prayers.”
“Agnes, you and your children have been very dear to me. If there is anything that I can do please do not hesitate to call. Love you all, Matt”
“Our Prayers Love are with you all, If there is anything we can do because we love Ben and you all dearly love Norris and Betty Shepherd”
“Agnes, my thoughts and prayers are with you and your family.”
“Agnes and family Hold tight to memories for comfort, lean on your friends for strength, and always remember how much you are loved. We pray the love of God surrounds you you during this sorrowful time and that He helps you heal with the passage of time by celebrating the life you shared.” “
“Agnes there are no words that can be said to lessen the loss you are feeling now. Ben touched alot of hearts and will be sorely missed. My thoughts and prayers are with you and your family!”
“I just don’t know how we are going to do it without you Ben. You were my brother, I miss you so much.”
“Agnes and family, During this difficult and painful time our thoughts and prayers are with each of you. God of hope, we come to you in shock and grief and confusion of heart. Help us to find peace in the knowledge of your loving mercy to all your children, and give us light to guide us out of our darkness into the assurance of your love, in Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen. “
“Ben will be deeply missed by all. I can’t remember a time that he wasn’t smiling. Ben has given us all very special memories to remember him by. My thoughts and prayers are with you all. “Ben my friend, rest in peace””
“Agnes and family, Ben was an exceptional young man who will always be fondly remembered. Nothing we can say will lessen your grief, but know that we are thinking of you at this time and keeping you in our prayers. “
“Agnes, Ruthie and Katie – We are so sorry to hear of Ben’s passing. Our thoughts and prayers are with all of you during this difficult time. Love, Billy, Kim & Jessica”
“Dearest Agnes, Tammy, Ruthie and Katie, Words cannot express the depth of sorrow we all feel for you and your family at this time. We will cherish the memories of Ben from the times all our kids played together in the neighborhood and when I had him for art class at Little Flower. Our constant prayers and thoughts are with you all. “
“Agnes and family-I will always remember Ben’s smile, that little twinkle as if he knew something the rest of us just didn’t get, and his willingness to help anyone who needed it. I share your sorrow at losing such a special person and hold you in my thoughts and prayers as you go through this difficult time.”
“Mrs. Birch, Ruthie, and Katie our thoughts are with you. “
“Agnes, Ruthie, and Katie I am sorry to hear of your loss. I have you all in my prayers. “
“Aggie, you and your family are in my thoughts and prayers.”
“Ben you were my world, my love, my everything. You will always have a special place in my heart and will never be forgotten. I love you so so much. My thoughts thoughts and prayers are with his family and friends.”
“Agnes,Ruthie & Katie In this time of sorrow, look up to the Lord for comfort. Only he knows why this has happened.He must have needed Ben in heaven,as I know that is where he is. We can’t tell you how special he was, as you all ready know. What a great joy it was to work with him. Always wanted to (make Money).We thought of him like he was one of our own. He always had a smile on his face and was willing to do anything. Last week I took a folder off the top of my desk and his picture fell out.(only his) It brought back memories of a fine young man. Wondered what he was doing.I guess that photo fell out for a reason.Our thoughts and prayers are with all of you. Ben is with our Lord now.May Your memories of Ben give you strength during this difficult time. “
“Ben was the kind of friend, everyone wishes they could have. He was funny, kind, smart, hardworking, and family-oriented. Ryan and I were blessed to work so closely with him this summer. We are praying for your family and share in your sorrow at this tragic time. “
“We knew Ben through Jessica and we thought really highly of him we send are deepest sympathies to you and family during this time of loss. “
“Jessica our thoughts and prayers go out to you in your time of sorrow love Sandy and Joe”
“Our prayers and thoughts are with you.”
“Ruthie and Family I am so sorry for your loss. You will always be in my thoughts and prayers. If there is anything I can do for you please do not hesitate to call. “
“Agnes & family – Our thoughts and prayers are with you. God Bless you all. Steve & Mary “
“Dearest Aggie, My thoughts and prayers go out to you and your family on the loss of your beloved Ben. He was such a sweet caring young man and had a smile that radiated within. He would always make you laugh, while you noted a hint of mischievousness within him. Ben, may you be at peace and stay in all our hearts, God Bless You, and All that Hold You Dear, Terri Meunier & family “
“Please know that our thoughts, prayers, and hearts go out to you.”
“Agnes and Family, No one can ever take away the great memories, think of them and know that thoughts and prayers are with you and yours. Karine”
“Agnes and girls, We got to know Ben over this past year and we adored him the moment we met him. His bright smile and positive personality was always so refreshing to us. We will be sure to toast the first Lemonade and Iced Tea this season to Ben. Please know you are in out thougts. Love from all of us at Jillian’s Fare”
“Agnes…there are “right” words to say at this time. Please know that my thoughts and prayers are with you and the family. May the fond memories of Ben bring you comfort at this most difficult time.”
“”Aunt Agnes and family, I know it has been tough. I am sure words can not even express what you all feel! I will keep you in my prayers. God bless you.””
“Agnes, Tammy, Ruthie & Katie, We are in Florida at this time, but please know that our love and prayers are with each of you. I wish we could be there with you – just know that we are thinking of you all and especially Ben at this time.”
“Agnes, Ruthie and Katie, Our prayers and thoughts are with you all at this sorrowful time. Nothing can lessen the loss of a love one but memories can be a comfort at this time, hold on to them. “
“Agnes, My heart goes out to you. Ben was a sweetheart to all of us that knew him. He is truly missed.”
“Agnes, I am so sorry for your loss and my prayers are with you always. “
“Aggie, May the Love of God be your strength at this very difficult time. Our Prayers are with you!”
“Ben will be missed, His bright smile and loving heart to make everyone feel special.. Ben will be in our hearts forever..”
“Agnes ~ Although we never had the pleasure of meeting our cousin Ben, my parents spoke of him so fondly. Our thoughts and prayers are with you and your family during this sorrowful time.”
“Agnes, Tammy, Ruthi and Katie, We will remember Ben with a big smile and an even bigger heart. We will continue to pray for you all during this very difficult time.”
“My heartfelt prayers go out to you and yours. There are not enough words that can be said for you to find comfont at this time, but always remember that God only calls the best. Ben was a sweet person. With all my years of attending LFS bingo, you never saw him without a smile. He will always be remembered. This bingo is for you, Ben.”
“Ruthie-The staff of the Calvert County Office on Aging sends heartfelt thoughts to you and your family. We are here for you with open arms.”
“Ruthie & Katie ~ My heart aches for you as I know how difficult it is to have that sibling bond taken away in an instant. Ben was always such a fun loving and caring person and I have very fond memories of him from our years at LFS. My thoughts and prayers are with you during this extremely difficult time. “
“My thoughts and prayers are with Ben’s family, friends, and loved ones. May he rest in peace. “
“Agnes, Tammy, Ruthie and Katie, Way too many memories to share here in this space. We are incredibly blessed to be a part of this tight knit family we have formed in Piney Point, always knowing we have each other. Knowing our children are loved beyond our front doors. We love all of you very much and will miss Ben just as we miss Ted. There are no perfect words at this time, for if there were we would have said them long ago. We offer you our hugs, our love and our prayers. You know where we are – and, Agnes, my hand is on my office window! “
“Anges and Family, My heart goes out to you in this time of sorrow. I will hold tight the grateful memories of Ben. May the love of those around you help you through the days ahead. “
“Ben, you are my friend and you always will be. You will always be in my prayers and will be truly missed. Agnes and family, I’m so sorry for your lost may the memories of Ben be with you forever! God Bless you all. Love Always!”
“Agnes and family, I have wrote and erased this five times. What does one say? Just that we care and will miss that smiling face around. I suppose that when the Lord calls us home we will recieve our answers. In the mean time we have each other.”
“Ruthie, Im truly sorry for your loss. Try to keep your head up through this extremely tough time and know that my thoughts and prayers are with you and your family.”
“Ruthie & Katie, There are no words that can comfort your pain & sorrow, but I am truly sorry for your loss. Your family will be in my thoughts & prayers!”
“Aggie I’m so sorry about your son Ben I did not know him very well but if he was like you he was a very good person he will be missed. I’m sorry that I was not there for you. If you need anything please call me just look for jeff and sandy…”
“Ruthie and Katie I am soooo sorry to her about your loss. I hadn’t talked to Ben much after we graduated, but I never stopped thinking about him. Our thoughts and prayers are with you all. “
“Aggie, very sorry about your loss and will keep you in my prayers. Gennie Williams”
“Agnes, Ruthie, Katie and Tammy, Ben will always be in our hearts, he was one of the truly good ones, I will miss him every day of my life. My thoughts and prayers will always be with you. XOXO “
“Agnes, Ruthie, Katie and Tammy-There are no words to adequately express my sympathy upon losing your beloved son and brother. Ben was a very special young man and was loved by many. We don’t know why God called him Home, all we know is that Heaven has another angel. I pray you have peace and comfort knowing he is with God.”
“Agnes & family, Our thoughts and prayers are with you. Ben touched so many lives in ways we truly appreciate. You have been blessed with a wonderful son and brother. “The sorrow of the faithful is not that of permanent loss, but the tender sense of sadness that comes in saying good-bye for now to someone we love. May today’s sorrow give way to the peace and comfort of God’s love. Someone so special…can never be forgotten.””
“Katie and the Birch Family, Our thoughts and prayers are with you and may you find comfort in the memories that were made together in years past. If you need anything please let us know. Barbara and Steven Delano”
“Now Ben as our family has lost yet another precious family member I can’t help but to feel the loss again of you and your dear dad. You two are so very missed and will always be greatly loved. Continued love and prayers for the family.”