Benjamin Franklin White "Ben" Welman III

Benjamin "Ben" Franklin White Welman, III, age 72, of Jefferson, Louisiana, passed away on Monday October 8, 2019 holding the hands of his loving daughters. Ben was born in New Orleans, Louisiana and raised in the Irish Channel neighborhood where he matriculated through Alcee Fortier High School where he served as student body president and was voted "Mr. Fortier" graduating in 1965. He went on to earn a Bachelor of Arts from Tulane University in 1969. After graduation, he went to work as a teacher for the New Orleans Public Schools where he met the love of his life and wife of 46 years, Jonnie. With Jonnie by his side, he attended the A.B. Freeman School of Business at Tulane earning a Masters in Business Administration in 1975; followed by a Doctor of Jurisprudence from Loyola College of Law in 1978. After a successful career in tax law he returned to his true passion of education, teaching at various schools in the New Orleans metropolitan area. Finally landing at the International School of Louisiana where he found a second family and was happily working until his passing. Ben's greatest accomplishment was his family whom he lovingly raised and took great pride in. Ben's love for his family was limitless and this was apparent to all who knew him. He is preceded in death by his wife, Jonnie; and his mother, Louise Shelley Welman and father, Benjamin Franklin White Welman II. He is survived by his daughters Lila Welman (James Rochel) and Dr. Maggie Welman Butler (Steven); his grandson, Henry James Rochel. Visitation will be held from 12:30 pm to 2:00 pm at the Leitz-Eagan Funeral Home, 4747 Veterans Blvd., Metairie, LA on Sunday October 13, 2019, followed by a Memorial Service at Leitz-Eagan Funeral Home Chapel at 2:00 pm. We welcome everyone to join us for the celebration of his life. An online guestbook is available at www.LeitzEaganFuneralHome.com.