JA of Georgia names 2025 Savannah Business Hall of Fame Laureates

SAVANNAH, Ga. (WTOC) - Junior Achievement of Georgia announced the names of their 2025 Savannah Business Hall of Fame Laureates.

Benny Curl, Chairman Emeritus of Byrd Cookie Company and William T. (Bill) Daniel Jr., Principal at Lassiter Investments, LLC and Retired Vice President and General Counsel of the Vaden Automotive Group were both named.

Curl is a Savannah native and United States Army veteran.

According to the JA of Georgia, “In 1988, he and his late wife Kay purchased Byrd Cookie Company, transforming it into a nationally recognized family business celebrated for its award-winning flavors and innovative packaging.”

While under his leadership, the company earned many honors in the state of Georgia. “A devoted husband, father, and grandfather, Benny’s legacy is defined by his entrepreneurial spirit, community leadership, and commitment to family,” wrote JA of Georgia in a press release.

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Daniel Jr. has lived in Savannah for 45 years. He is the owner of Lassiter Investments, LLC, and retired in 2020 as Vice President and General Counsel of the Vaden Automotive Group. Before joining Vaden, he practiced law in Savannah and served in the Carter Administration as Special Assistant to the General Counsel of the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs.

“Daniel has held numerous leadership roles in healthcare, education, and philanthropy across Savannah, serving boards at Memorial Health University Medical Center, Savannah Christian Preparatory School, and the Georgia Methodist Foundation,” wrote the JA of Georgia in a press release. “Married to Linda Vaden, Daniel is a devoted father and grandfather, and he and his family remain actively engaged at Isle of Hope United Methodist Church.”

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“We are delighted to be welcoming Benny and Bill into our esteemed laureate society,” said Craig Tootle, Director of Development and Volunteer Partnerships for JA of Georgia in Savannah. “Both gentlemen’s contributions have never gone unnoticed within our community; however, we are fortunate to recognize them on such a special year- our 25th anniversary.”