Ben Richard King

Ben Richard King, age 76, died peacefully in his home with family at his side on April 9th, 2026. Ben was a devout Christian, a gifted professor, a talented musician, and a beloved husband, father, and grandfather.

Born to Herman and Lorene King in Lockney, Texas, on December 14th, 1949, Ben was raised on their farm in Floyd County, where he developed a can-do attitude and strong sense of initiative. Ben was a man of projects, always hard at work. He directed alumni tours of Europe, remodeled homes, announced for classical radio, loved woodworking, and was always ready to help a friend or neighbor.

Ben was every bit as driven in pursuing his education. A high-school valedictorian, Ben attended Texas Tech University, where he completed both Bachelor and Master of Music degrees. He earned his Doctorate of Musical Arts from the Eastman School of Music.

Ben first met his future wife Vicki McCormick in 1969 at Lubbock Christian College. They shared a common church and family background, as well as a love for musical theater. Ben & Vicki were married in 1974, and spent the first year of their marriage touring the USA with The Horizons, an a capella Christian singing group.

Ben had an accomplished career in higher education, most notably at Houghton University, where he spent a cumulative 27 years. Both a professor of voice and an administrator, Ben shepherded a generous endowment to the Houghton music program that established The Greatbatch School of Music and its associated graduate program, becoming the school's director & associate dean. Ben also served for 20 years as an NASM evaluator, supporting colleges nationwide in their efforts to provide quality music programs. He was greatly admired as a teacher, mentor, and colleague by both faculty and students. Since his death, many have written heartfelt accounts of his impact on their lives. These stories have been a gift to his family, and reflect the diligence and passion Ben brought to his professional life.

In addition to his work as an educator, Ben was also a performer, soloist, and director/producer. He sang with Houston Grand Opera and several regional opera companies, as well as in collegiate theatrical productions and recitals. He was especially known for his memorable performances as Tevye in Fiddler on the Roof. (His grandchildren, however, would maintain that his finest performance was his famous rendition of The Book With No Pictures, which never failed to earn a standing ovation).

In 2016, Ben was diagnosed with Multiple Myeloma, and then in 2025 with t-MDS. He lived with love, strength and fortitude for 10 years despite blood cancer, never losing the drive and determination that had characterized so much of his life. He loved his Savior and was confident in his ultimate home. In retirement, Ben spent time singing with the Redeemer Church Choir and Conspirare Symphonic, chairing the board of Arts on Alexander, and traveling. His greatest joy was spending time with his children and grandchildren, who will dearly miss splashing in the pool, talking about books, movies and music, enjoying ice cream, donuts and kolaches, and playing games with their Papa Ben.

Ben was preceded in death by his parents and his sister, Joan King Davidson. He is survived by Vicki, his wife of 52 years; his children, Brian (married to Emily Jeffers), Barry (married to Mindela Sheaffer), and David; and his grandsons, Noah, Simon, Elliot, Graham, and Alan.

Memorial gifts can be made in Ben's honor to Houghton University, providing scholarships which benefit vocal and choral students. Contact Houghton University, Attn: Office of Advancement, 1 Willard Avenue, Houghton, NY 14744. The Memorial Service will be held for Ben Richard King
at Redeemer Presbyterian Church in Austin Texas at 3:00 on Sunday, April 26, 2026. Livestream https://youtube.com/@RedeemerPresbyterianATX