GREENBRIER COUNTY W.Va. (WVDN) – Cleve Benedict, a highly respected and influential figure in Greenbrier County, is turning 90 this month, marking a significant milestone in a life that has been dedicated to public service and community development. His daughter is the mastermind behind his birthday celebration, which is happening Friday, Mar. 14, from 6 to 8 p.m. at the Dutch Haus Restaurant in Lewisburg. This will be an evening of stories, laughter and celebration. Your presence is the only gift he needs! Together, he wishes to toast to 90 remarkable years.
Born on March 21, 1935, in Harrisburg, Pennsylvania, Benedict’s journey has led him through several key positions in both state and national politics, where his work has impacted the people of West Virginia for decades. His passion for public service was evident early on as he became involved in local politics and community development.
Benedict’s political career began in the 1970s when he took on a leadership role within a political party in West Virginia. His expertise in both agriculture and economic development quickly made him a key player in the state’s political landscape. He built a reputation as someone deeply invested in the interests of rural West Virginians, especially the farming community.
When asked about advice for the younger generation, Benedict said, “Advice is what you pay for. But free advice is hard to come by. I think you should live your life day by day. You should get up in the morning and go to work, pay your taxes and take care of your wife and children. “There’s no big secret.”
In 1980, Benedict was elected to the U.S. House of Representatives, where he represented West Virginia’s 2nd Congressional District. He served in this capacity from 1981 to 1983. Though his time in Congress was brief, Benedict made his mark as an advocate for economic development, particularly for rural areas. He championed policies that were intended to support agriculture and small businesses, which are vital components of West Virginia’s economy to this day.
Benedict’s time in Washington allowed him to develop valuable relationships and understand the intricacies of federal policy. Though his stint in Congress was short, it paved the way for his future leadership roles at the state level.
Following his tenure in Congress, Benedict turned his attention to state-level politics. From 1988 to 1992, he served as the West Virginia Commissioner of Agriculture. In this role, Benedict worked tirelessly to modernize the state’s agricultural sector, introducing policies and initiatives that supported local farmers and promoted sustainable practices.
He was known for his efforts to diversify the state’s agricultural economy, advocating for improvements in farming technology and infrastructure. Benedict’s work as Commissioner of Agriculture helped solidify his reputation as a champion for West Virginia’s rural communities, and he left a lasting impact on the state’s agricultural policies.
His leadership was instrumental in shaping the region’s development, particularly in areas such as infrastructure, economic development, and community services. Benedict was a tireless advocate for Greenbrier County, ensuring that the needs of the local population were met while also planning for future growth.
His ability to balance both economic progress and the preservation of Greenbrier County’s unique heritage earned him widespread respect and admiration from residents.
Throughout his life, Benedict has maintained a strong connection to his roots in West Virginia, and his commitment to the state’s rural communities remains a defining feature of his career. His work has impacted generations of West Virginians, from his early political involvement to time in state government.
In a world where public service is often undervalued, Cleve Benedict stands as a shining example of what can be achieved through dedication, passion and a deep love for one’s community. His story is one of resilience and service, and as he celebrates this milestone birthday, his impact on Greenbrier County and West Virginia will hopefully continue to be felt for years to come. “I look forward to celebrating my 100th birthday,” said Benedict with a smile.
