Deacon Benjamin Gordon Henson, son of the late James O. Henson Sr. and Gladys A. Henson, was born on October 9, 1942, in Annapolis, MD. On April 27, 2026, he entered eternal rest.

Ben received his education from Anne Arundel County Public Schools and graduated from Wiley H. Bates High School. After graduating from high school, he enlisted in the US Air Force. It was during his time stationed in Hampton, VA, that he met and married Frances Richardson on April 3, 1965, a culminating journey of 61 years together. Following his military service, Ben embarked on a successful professional path as a Sales Executive with Philip Morris USA, where he diligently served until his well-deserved retirement.

Ben was a dedicated and dependable presence at Morning Star Baptist Church. As both a Deacon and Trustee, he took special care in managing the church’s transportation, making sure everyone had the opportunity to attend services and events. He was also a familiar, friendly face at the door, warmly welcoming members as an usher and helping them feel at home. He also served as a co-teacher for youth Sunday school and a trusted spiritual advisor, offering support and encouragement to both the youth ministries and the usher board.

Ben had a passion for golf, a love that grew during his early days on the courses in Annapolis, Maryland. His natural talent and hard work shone through in the trophies he collected, the unforgettable trips he took, and the coveted gear he amassed—each piece as a testament to his incredible skill and dedication. Ben's commitment to golf went far beyond his own achievements. 

For over twenty years, he played a vital role in the Old Dominion Golf Club Association, an organization for Black golfers, where he proudly served as President. Annually, the club hosted a golf tournament at Deer Run Golf Course in Newport News VA, attracting legendary figures Lee Elder, Gary Player, Robert Wrenn, and Jim Thorpe, along with personalities such as comedian Flip Wilson. More importantly, Ben was a strong advocate for the club's mission to nurture the next generation, providing invaluable golf lessons to young Black aspiring golfers. His unwavering passion for the game, coupled with his dedication to fostering diversity in the sport, has left a profound impact on the golfing community and a legacy that inspires everyone who had the honor of knowing him. In retirement, he enjoyed working as a starter at The Newport News Golf Club at Deer Run in Newport News, VA.

He was preceded in death by his parents, sisters, Agnes I. McKenzie, Gladys A. Matthews, Jean Pack, and brothers, James O. Henson Jr. and Edward P. Henson, Sr.  

Ben leaves to cherish his memory, his wife, Frances; daughters, Darice Y. Henson and Natalie Y. F. Henson; sister, Barbara (John) Ravenell, and sister-in-law, Shirley Henson; grandchildren, Kayla (Christopher) Smith, Kyree J. Patterson, Kavon A. Patterson, Xavier N. Green; great-grandson, Romeo D. Smith, and a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends. 

Viewing will be held from 9:00 a.m. until the Celebration of Life service starting at 11:00 a.m. Saturday, May 9, 2026 at Morning Star Baptist Church.