Eldon C. "Ted" Benson Jr.

Ted was undoubtedly one of the finest individuals I have met. One of my fondest memories was the time we were riding in my car singing, at the top of our lungs,that old Johnny Long standard, "A Shanty in old Shantytown" I don't know if it was our singing or if I were over the speed limit, but I was cited with a ticket and had to attend a drivers education class together with paying a healthy fine. The more I think of it I think it was Ted's voice that brought attention to the...

I knew Ted quite well in 1950-51 when we were "brother rats" (from Lynchburg) at VMI. Because I didn't return to VMI the following year and have lived my life away from Lynchburg, I never saw Ted after the VMI Lynchburg Club's picnic at Bedford Lake in June of 1951.

Though more than half a century has passed, the memory of Ted is still vivid. He had a postive attitude and great sense of humor. It was good just being around him.

I extend my sympathy to Ted's family and friends.

Ted was not only a great person but a great inspiration. I will always remember the many discussions we had, the stories and the forever laughter which depicted his true and warm nature. I'll miss him.