Ben Ingram

Irvin Bennett "Ben" Ingram was born on January 26, 1943, in Philadelphia, Neshoba County, Mississippi, to the late Dorris and Mavis Ingram. He graduated from Neshoba Central High School in 1961 and later enlisted in the United States Navy, where he attended basic training at the San Diego Naval Training Center in California.
Ben proudly served aboard the USS Noble, USS Iwo Jima, and USS Mt. McKinley. A Vietnam veteran, he also participated in the Cuban Missile Crisis. After completing his military service, Ben dedicated 38 years to law enforcement for the State of Mississippi, where he was known for his strong sense of duty, quiet courage, and unfailing kindness toward those he served beside.
Ben's love and devotion to his Lord and Savior were ever present, as was his deep adoration for his beloved wife, Nancy, and his family. Upon retirement, if the weather was right, Ben could always be found in pursuit of the Mississippi crappie - fishing was one of his love languages and a source of great joy for many years. He often said some of his best prayers were whispered out on the water.
He dearly loved his church home and the dear friends God placed in his life through it. His faith, integrity, and gentle spirit left an enduring mark on all who knew him. Ben had a gift for making people feel seen and valued, whether through a quiet smile, a word of encouragement, or a helping hand offered when no one else was looking.
Ben was preceded in death by his parents, Dorris and Mavis Ingram of Philadelphia, Mississippi, and his beloved granddaughter, Maggie Bennett Ingram.
He is survived by his devoted wife, Nancy Harbor Ingram; his sons, Tony, Kevin, and adopted son David; his grandchildren, Sam, Gray, Kevin Jr., and Emily Ingram; and his siblings, Vicky Logan and Shelton Ingram. He also leaves behind five great-grandchildren: Brantley, Asher, Morgan, Ada Bennett, and Tucker Ingram - each one a joyful testament to his legacy of love.
Ben's life was a story of faithfulness - to God, to family, and to the values that shaped him from his Mississippi roots. He was steady, humble, and kind, a man whose quiet strength will echo through generations. Those who loved him will remember his laughter, his patience, and the peace he carried wherever he went.
Nancy and the family would like to extend heartfelt thanks to David and Liz Clemmer for their unwavering love and support throughout this journey. Deep appreciation is also extended to Tasha Knox, their extraordinary hospice nurse with Accent Hospice, whose kindness, compassion, and professionalism far exceeded all expectations. Gratitude is also given to John and JoAnn Curry and the Walk of Faith Sunday School Class for their steadfast love, encouragement, and faithful support along the way.
"I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, I have kept the faith." - 2 Timothy 4:7
In lieu of flowers, gifts of life may be made to Cancer Ministries, First Baptist Church of Madison, Mississippi.