Benjamin Wallace Thompson, affectionately known as “Benny,” passed away peacefully on February 25, 2026, at the age of 80.

Born on September 20, 1945, in Dayton, Ohio, Benjamin was the second of three sons born to the late Richard and Louise Thompson. Raised in Dayton, he carried deep pride in his hometown throughout his life. He shared an especially close and cherished bond with his beloved mother, whom he lovingly called “MaMa.” She was not only his mother, but his best friend. He often spoke fondly of her delicious home-cooked meals and desserts, which remained some of his most treasured memories.

Benjamin graduated from Roosevelt High School, Class of 1963, and went on to earn his degree from Central State University, Class of 1967. He built a long and respected professional career as an accountant with General Motors Delphi, where he worked faithfully for over 28 years.

In 1978, he married Lillian Dowdell (Drakeford), and in 1981 they welcomed their daughter, Meghan Elizabeth, who became the light of his life. Though the marriage ended in 1983, Benjamin remained a devoted and proud father. His daughter Meghan and his two grandsons, Miles and Rhys, were truly his pride and joy. He delighted in their accomplishments and treasured every moment spent with them.

Benjamin was a lifelong and faithful member of St. Margaret’s Episcopal Church. He found peace and inspiration in smooth jazz music, especially artists like Kenny G, as well as classical organ music heard in church sanctuaries.

A man of many passions, Benjamin loved automobiles and attended the Detroit Auto Show numerous times over the years. He also had a deep appreciation for architecture and home design, frequently attending Home Arama events throughout southwest Ohio. His admiration for building and design inspired one of his proudest accomplishments: developing and building the five-unit condominium complex, Macy Place, in 1994. He took immense pride in contributing something lasting and meaningful to the Dayton community.

Benjamin also had a profound appreciation for Black art and culture. He curated a collection of abstract paintings, tribal African masks, sculptures, and treasured mementos from his travels — pieces that reflected both his heritage and his artistic spirit.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Richard D. Thompson and Louise Thompson; his brother, Richard A. Thompson; and his great-nephew, Caden Thompson.

He leaves to cherish his memory his daughter, Meghan McCreary (Jacarr); his grandsons, Miles and Rhys McCreary; his brother, Douglas B. Thompson (Darla); and his nephews, Stafford Thompson (Jeni), Andrew Thompson, Jason Thompson (Elizabeth), and Ryan Thompson (April). He is also survived by his lifelong friends, Charles Haddix and Christopher Bellamy, as well as a host of nieces, nephews, other relatives, and dear friends.

Benjamin will be remembered for his quiet strength, refined taste, deep love for family, and unwavering pride in his roots. His legacy lives on in the lives he touched, the community he helped build, and the family he loved so dearly.