Benjamin Wilson

Benjamin Wilson was born in Harlem, NY on April 14, 1951 to Henrietta and Benjamin Wilson Jr. He was unexpectedly called home to be with the Lord on May 23, 2005 in Petersburg, VA. Ben was the youngest of three siblings. He grew up in Queens, NY where many of his lifelong friendships began. He graduated from John Adams High School in 1969 and soon after joined the United States Air Force. After his military service Ben returned to New York and after a period of time worked for the Metropolitan Transit Authority in New York City Transit.
Ben was a man of many talents. Athletic and competitive, he loved playing paddle ball and basketball. He was an excellent chess player that enjoyed the mental challenge and strategy of the game.
In 1995, Ben relocated to Petersburg, VA. A gifted painter and handyman, Ben could fix just about anything. Whether it was repairing a neighbor's fence, painting a room with precision or restoring something back to good working order, Ben found joy and took pride in his work. He was the maintenance and repair man for the Walnut Hill apartment complex for many years.
Ben had a playful and lighthearted nature. He had a great sense of humor and a warm, distinctive laugh. He loved to joke, tease and make others smile.
Ben found spiritual fulfillment and fellowship in Petersburg. He joined St. John Christian Community Church under Reverend Addison Varner and became an active member.
Ben was preceded in death by his father who was killed in action in the Korean War only a few months after Ben was born, never getting to see and hold his youngest child. He was also preceded in death by both of his sisters Cynthia Harvey and Sheila Bond.
Left to cherish his memories are his wife Jennifer Whitney of Petersburg VA, his mother Henrietta Wilson of Dinwiddie VA, his children Jacqualyn Porter (Gregory), Benjamin Porter (Bianca), Theresa Wilson-Reid, Sanora Boykin, Murray Boykin, Latisha Hopkins (Sedgric), Jonathan Boykin, Joshua Wilson (Wanda), Crystal Millage (Nicholas) and Cassandra Boykin; and a host of grandchildren, nieces, a nephew, cousins and extended relatives and friends.
Repast to follow at: The Old Towne Civic Center 136 River St. Petersburg, VA 23803 To plant a beautiful memorial tree in memory of Benjamin, please visit our Tree Store.