Mr. Benjamin F. Boyd Jr.

Benjamin Franklin Boyd Jr. was born on August 17, 1949 in Kansas City, Kansas. He was the first born to the union of Benjamin F. Boyd Sr. and LaRue G. Cole. Ben ("Butch" to his family and close friends) from his earliest beginnings led a purposeful life of service to others. He secured a paper route, delivering The Call throughout the neighborhood during his elementary school years, continued his education at Bishop Ward High School in Kansas City, Kansas excelling academically and at basketball. Afterwards Ben developed an interest in financial services that became his life long passion. Ben pursued higher education by earning an undergraduate business management degree from the University of Missouri – Kansas City (UMKC), and subsequent MBA from Regis College. Ben married and enjoyed successful careers at Amoco Oil and Merrill Lynch. During that time, he was blessed with two daughters. In addition to family and career pursuits, Ben was a devoted and life member of his beloved Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc. initially inducted as an undergraduate at UMKC and continuing commitment and service as a member of Beta Lambda Chapter at Kansas City, Missouri. Ben, eventually followed in the footsteps of his father as an independent financial services agent, providing counsel and planning to over 200 clients for more than 30 years until his retirement in 2021. Ben's career was distinguished by numerous industry and community recognitions, including awards received from Merrill Lynch, national investment firms, and the Black Achievers of Kansas City. Ben faithfully served as a member of St. James UMC Alumni Association, Henry W. Bloch School of Management Advisory Board and The African American Student Union (TAASU) of UMKC. Ben was a fantastic cook and enjoyed making barbeque, baked beans, dinner rolls and the Boyd rum cream pie recipe. He enjoyed "thrifting," sharing words of encouragement, and collecting sports and music memorabilia – especially KU, Chiefs, and Kansas City Jazz treasures. After a lengthy illness and blessed to celebrate his 75th birthday on Sunday August 17, 2025, Ben made a peaceful transition the evening of August 19, 2025. He is survived by his wife of 21 years, Karen Patrice Boyd; daughters (from a previous marriage): Amber Noelle Pagan and Mercedes Alexis Boyd; grandsons: Zylen and Zander; son and daughter (Karen's children): Andrew and Lauren; sisters: Cheri Payton (Preston) and Stephanie Boyd; and a host of extended family and friends. Rest well, beloved and faithful servant of God. Private Disposition. A memorial service will be held at a later. Arrangements entrusted to Lawrence A. Jones & Sons. Condolences may be shared on our website.