Benjamin Garcia

In loving memory of Benjamin Garcia

Benjamin Rivera Garcia, of Cornelius, born January 29, 1944, in Puerto Rico, went to be with our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ, on January 29, 2026, his 82nd birthday. He passed away peacefully, surrounded by his loving family, after a long battle with dementia.

Ben grew up in New York City and moved to Long Island in 1978, where he and Millie raised their family. He earned an associate's degree and was a proud veteran of the US Navy, where he served on the USS Enterprise from 1963 to 1965, followed by two years in the reserves.

Ben devoted 25 years to the FDNY, serving the people of New York City as a brave firefighter and retiring as a decorated Lieutenant in 1998. During his career, he had the honor and privilege of serving with Engine 82, recognized as the busiest firehouse in the world. He loved the excitement, the camaraderie, and the opportunity to save lives. After retiring, he and his wife moved to Cornelius, NC in 2001.

Above all else, Ben was a loving husband, devoted father, and adoring grandfather. He was always encouraging, playful, and full of joy. He loved the Lord deeply, studying and teaching God's Word, sharing his faith with family and friends, and faithfully leading his family spiritually. He was a sweet and kind man, known for his warm smile, quick laugh, down-to-earth nature, and trademark dimples.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Benjamin and Inez; his brother Hector; his son Michael Garcia (Shelia), and his grandchildren Hannah and Sean.

Ben is survived by his devoted wife of 55 years, Millie; their loving children, Joanne Findley (Kelly), Ben Garcia (Christina), and Priscilla McConnell (Brandon); and his son Eric; 19 grandchildren; 7 great-grandchildren; and his brothers Julio, Eddie, and Carlos.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Samaritan's Purse. https://www.samaritanspurse.org

Services will be held at James Funeral Home, located at 10520 Arahova Drive, Huntersville, NC, on Sunday, February 15th at 1PM. A reception will follow in the James Funeral Home Community Room.

James Funeral Home of Huntersville is serving the family.