Benjamin Eagles Fountain Jr.

When I was a reporter for The Free Press in Kinston I had opportunity to get to know Dr. Ben Fountain, Jr. rather well and to spend a lot of time in good conversation with him. He always was a favorite of my North Carolina people and always will be in the group of Tar Heels known as North Carolina's Best.

I have many fond memories of Ben Fountain. He was a good example for all of us in the Rocky Mount High School class of 1947. My sincere condolences to the family and may he rest in peace.

My sympathy to all the family; a pleasure to have known him.

Jack Monahan

Fountain Family, my family was and is lucky to have known yours for many years from First Presbyterian and Peace College. My thoughts and prayers are with you during this time. I remember Dr. Fountain very fondly along with all of you.

A gentleman and a scholar in every sense of the phrase. He gave unselfishly of himself to better education in North Carolina and his sacrifices and leadership are seen across NC today on community college campuses and at other institutions of higher education. He will be sorely missed.

Through my work at Waltonwood, I had the privilege to know Mr. Ben. He truly was a kind soul. In a time like such as this words seldom comfort, but take solace in knowing that Ben Fountain Jr. lived a wonderful life of purpose. We all should be so fortunate.

I was fortunate to have been a graduate student in one of Dr. Fountain's classes when he taught as an adjunct professor at NC State's College of Education. He shared tremendously valuable information about the NC Community College System's history. He shared information about the struggles and successes of the community colleges. He also taught us some outstanding lessons about governmental budgeting, finance, and auditing. He was an outstanding educator and leader. North Carolina and especially, the community colleges have lost a cherished leader. He will be missed, but definitely fondly remembered. Sending condolences to his family and special friends.

I was one of Mr. Fountain's caregivers from Comfort Keepers. I only knew him for a couple of weeks though I must say he was so sweet and always so appreciative.I was blessed to have met him and hope that I did my very best to assist him on his last few weeks of his life.I'm glad he is a peace now and with God ! Kathryn DeNigris

Stephanie and family,
I am sure you will not remember me. You worked with me years ago in Dept of Education. I wanted to send you a message to let you know I am sorry to hear about your dad. Praying that peace and comfort will be with you during this time.

March 14
We are deeply saddened to hear of Ben's passing. His gentle kindness, humor, and warmth enriched our lives and set an example for us to follow. Ben, you live in our hearts and memories. We send our love and prayers to all the family.

Claire and family,
Our condolences at the loss of a real light (from what we hear and read!) in this world, but I know from Greg the impact he has (forever)had and will continue to have on the family he was so proud of. May he rest in peace. Rick and Christine

Dr. Fountain conducted some study seminars when I was a graduate student at NCSU. He was such a great resource, full of knowledge and stories about NC community colleges. He showed his knowledge again with great stories at the NCCCS 50th anniversary celebration. He leaves an important legacy.
Sincerely,
Pamela Hilbert
President, Robeson CC

Dr. Fountain was someone I considered a mentor and friend, and he was an instrumental force in the development of the North Carolina Community College System. I always felt we had a unique kinship as we were the only two state system presidents to have also served as a local community college president. Dr. Fountain's life had tremendous impact on the development of North Carolina higher education, and in the lives of thousands of students spanning across generations and geography. He was one of the most humble great men I ever met. He loved his family, his state, and he championed the idea of broadly available education and made that a reality for so many North Carolinians. Dr. Fountain once told me that in one of his last conversations with Governor Terry Sanford, the Governor told him, "Ben, don't ever forget about the poor people." Dr. Fountain never did, and as a result, his lived a life of great meaning and extraordinary impact.

Claire and Family; May your bereaved loved ones find solace in the inspiring memories of the exemplary life of the departed.