Julian Benjamin

Dr. Julian Michael Benjamin, 76, passed away peacefully on June 3, 2025, in Greensboro, North Carolina, surrounded by his loving family. Born on August 20, 1948, in Yonkers, New York, Julian lived a life rich with intellectual pursuit, creative expression, and unwavering devotion to those he loved.

A distinguished educator and engineer, Julian dedicated his professional life to advancing the field of transportation planning. As a professor at North Carolina A&T State University, he played a pivotal role in shaping the academic landscape of what would become known as supply chain management. His pioneering research and innovative thinking left an indelible mark on both academia and industry.

Julian's expertise extended beyond the classroom. He maintained a thriving consulting practice, contributing his knowledge to critical national projects. His work with the U.S. government on nuclear waste transport issues and his consulting for General Motors reflected both the breadth and depth of his professional capabilities. His reputation for excellence earned him visiting positions at prestigious institutions such as the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) and the Technion - Israel Institute of Technology in Haifa.

Yet Julian's brilliance was not confined to his career. He approached life with unbounded enthusiasm and a spirit of discovery that touched every aspect of his being. A man of many talents and interests, he found joy in pursuits as varied as crafting homemade fireworks and embarking on motorcycle adventures across the country and abroad. His artistic eye came alive through photography and home moviemaking-mediums through which he preserved cherished family memories.

Music was a lifelong passion for Julian. At just 20 years old, he attended the legendary Woodstock festival-a testament to his love for music and cultural exploration. That passion endured throughout his life as he sang in the Temple Emanuel choir, sharing his voice in worship and celebration with his community.

Julian's thirst for knowledge never waned. He taught himself to play chess, guitar, and even how to sail-each new skill a reflection of his relentless curiosity and zest for life. But above all else, Julian treasured time spent with his beloved grandchildren, Miles and Willa. Their laughter and presence brought him immeasurable joy and pride.

He is survived by his devoted wife, Debbie; his sons, David and Danny; and his cherished grandchildren, Miles and Willa. His legacy lives on through the countless students he mentored, the colleagues he inspired, and the family who adored him.

A memorial service celebrating Julian's remarkable life will be held on Friday, June 6, 2025, at 11:00 AM at Temple Emanuel, located at 1129 Jefferson Road, Greensboro, NC 27410.

In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests that donations be made in Julian's memory to the Multiple Sclerosis Society or the Temple Emanuel Music Fund.

Dr. Julian Michael Benjamin will be remembered as a brilliant mind, a creative soul, and above all, a loving husband, father, and grandfather who embraced every moment with purpose and passion. May his memory bring comfort to all who knew him.