Benjamin P. JAMES

Ben James, Was a inspiration and good friend and teacher. May he rest in peace and placed into paradise. Ameen! Scott McNeal

Saddened to hear this. I studied with Ben in at Central in the early 80s. He made going to school meaningful at a time I really needed that. He was an inspiration. RIP Ben James.

I first met Ben at the Twin Cities Institute for Talented Youth at Macalester College, I believe it was the summer of 1974. This was a summer program with a variety of classes offered. Ben's class was called Acting, Music and Junk Collection. I believe I attended this summer program for 2 or 3 summers. Ben did the music part and John Stout did the acting part. At that point, I knew that I had met one of the most amazing men in my life. Every day at lunch I would bring extra cookies to...

Ben, I remember all the way back to late 70s in the old building and of course when we moved to Central High school with all of the new equipment. WOW!! you did a hell of a job keeping us in line as we were so excited about the new digs. You always showed us respect and created some VERY talented Musicians under your direction. Bless you Brother. Say hi to Tee Presley.

Journey well Ben, I hope Allah ( ) will have mercy on you - Ben was a good teacher and mentor - Rest well.

I'm very sorry for your family's loss. The recording arts program that Ben built at Saint Paul Central was pivotal in my journey to a career in music and is where I met many lifelong music friends. The space he created for budding musicians and sound engineers was extremely important to so many of us, I will always be grateful for the work he did to create it (and to keep the decibel levels in check) :)

Many past students will remember Ben James for how he encouraged them. My son speaks of Ben´s concern for students. "A kind and unique person. Joyce Shelton , parent