Benjamin Franklin Jessup, Jr.

Benjamin Franklin (Ben) Jessup, Jr., age 85, of Wallace left this earthly life for his eternal home on Saturday, January 16, 2021.

He was born April 21, 1935 in Bladen County; son of the late Benjamin Franklin and Ila Daniel Jessup.  He was also preceded in death by his in-laws Robert Frank and Mildred Boone and his brother-in-law Almon H. Carter, Jr.

Ben is survived by his wife of 62 years, Emily Boone Jessup of the home; daughters Angela Partin and husband Tom of Richlands, Leslie Fitzpatrick and husband Brian of Charlotte; son Robert Jessup and partner Mike of Atlanta; grandsons Eric Partin and wife Amanda of Wilmington, Matthew Partin of Richlands; sisters Marion Glyn Carter of Wallace, Sue Davidson and husband Jim of Virginia; brother Julian Jessup and wife Jeannie of Dunn; sister-in-law Jayne McLean of Wallace and numerous nephews, nieces, and friends.

Ben lived a “simple” life.  He was truly a “family man”, always enjoying time with his wife, children, grandchildren and his extended family.  He loved and served his wife and children, always working hard to support them and putting their needs first.  Ben also provided a strong spiritual foundation of faith in his home.  He taught us about Jesus and what really matters in life through the way he lived his life.

Ben served his community well through his appliance business for 40 years.  He served with “style” and a “smile”.  He never knew a “stranger”, always taking time to have conversations with people, desiring to get to know them better.  He won the hearts of many throughout his career and attracted people with his outgoing, witty personality.  Ben developed long-standing friendships with his customers and others in the community.  He also served his country through the Army National Guard.

Ben loved the Lord and his church family.  He was a member of First Baptist in Wallace, where he served as deacon and served on numerous committees over the years.  He also visited shut-ins, encouraging them and providing them with tapes of the worship services.  And many Sundays, his family waited in the car as Ben would make sure the church was locked up, lights out, and thermostats set correctly.  He had a servant’s heart, always willing to lend a helping hand to others.  Ben loved unconditionally and treated everyone equally.

Ben’s favorite Scripture passage was Psalm 100.  He always acknowledged God’s faithfulness and goodness through his journey, giving thanks to God, no matter what life brought his way.  He fought the good fight well and ran the race, always keeping his eyes on God. 

            The family wants to thank Vidant Family Medicine for giving Ben such wonderful care over the years and also Vidant Duplin Hospital for the great care he received there in his latter days. 

            Due to Covid, our family has decided to have a Memorial Service at a later time.  We welcome visits outside at the home, following CDC safety guidelines, masks and distancing.  Thank you for your understanding and the support you have given through phone calls, food, and cards.

            A memorial service to honor his life is set for 11:00 a.m. on Saturday, May 1, 2021 at First Baptist Church of Wallace.

            In lieu of flowers, memorials may be given to First Baptist Church of Wallace Building Maintenance Fund.

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