Bessye Hall Benjamin Dies at 86

Bessye Hall Benjamin

Bessye Hall Benjamin, also known as “Momie,” “Grandma Bessie,” “Mother B” and “Miss Benjamin,” of Estate Mon Bijou died on Feb. 12. She was 86 years old.

She is survived by her daughter, Shantel Leotrice Dupree; sons: Daniell Owen Jackson, Marvin Owen Benjamin and Jamal Owen Benjamin; and grandchildren: Keelan Jackson, Daniel Jackson, Antonio Portis, Alexander Benjamin, Destiny Talley, Denniqua Benjamin, Jaleel Benjamin, Ja’Lasia Benjamin, Javon Benjamin, Jayden Benjamin, Knaomi Dupree, Heavenly Ann Dupree, Divine Dupree and Alvin Dupree III.

She is also survived by great-grandchildren: Ava Jackson, Indie Jackson, Kimani Benjamin, Khalani Clarke and Khadine Clarke; daughters-in-law: LaTaunya Jackson (My Sarah), and Kellie Benjamin; son-in-law, Alvin J. Dupree Jr.; sisters-in-law: Sheryll Ryan, Sharon Denis (Faffy) and Doris Miller; special friend, Vernette Antoine (Mommy Bun); and other relatives and friends too numerous to mention.

A viewing will take place at 9 a.m. followed by the funeral service at 10 a.m., Tuesday, Feb. 21, at Sunny Isle Baptist Church. Interment will be at Kingshill Cemetery.