WV Coal Miner's Testimony Just Weeks before Death: "If God takes me tomorrow, I've had a good life"

Aimee Herd : Apr 9, 2010
Harry Smith – CBS News

"He said he was thankful that the Lord had saved his soul…"

As a West Virginia community, and the country, tries to deal with the devastating heartbreak of the loss of so many miners in the Upper Big Branch coal mine, one of the miners' statements may help to bring comfort.

Benny Willingham, one of the miners lost in Monday's explosive disaster underground, testified in his church, a couple weeks ago, and what he said has proved to be somewhat prophetic.

Benny's sister told CBS News reporter, Harry Smith, "…a couple weeks ago in church, he said he was thankful that the Lord had saved his soul, and he said 'He has watched over me in the mines for over 30 years.' He said, 'If He takes me tomorrow, I've had a good life.'"

Benny, who was described as a "loving, loving man who loved God and loved his family," had worked in the WV mines for over 30 years and was just weeks before retirement. Having served in the US Air Force, Benny will have military honors at the funeral.

Watch the moving interview at the source link provided, and on the Featured Video on the bottom of the BCN homepage.