The Lord of Glory ushered Benjamin Morris Barksdale, Jr., 60, into His Glory on Saturday, April twenty sixth, 2025.
“Benji” was born on November 14, 1964, the son of Benjamin Morris, Sr., and Corliss Barksdale of Hepzibah, WV.
Ben is survived by his spouse, Sandra (Huggins) Barksdale, and a daughter whom he immensely LOVED, Olivia, and her fiancé, Joel Sienko. He leaves to cherish his recollections a sister, Donna & Elijah Ham of Montclair, VA; a brother, Brian & Michelle Barksdale of Clarksburg, WV.
Additionally surviving are aunts, uncles, nieces, nephews and cousins. Ben proudfully adored his youngest nephews: Isaac & Ian. We acknowledge an expensive pal, TT.
He was preceded in dying by one sister, Marsha Lynn.
Benji was a graduate of Lincoln Excessive College, Class of 1983. He starred because the beginning quarterback of the soccer group. Ben started his firefighter profession as a Junior Firefighter with the Spelter Volunteer Fireplace Division.
After graduating from Fairmont State, Ben moved to Arlington, VA, to pursue his dream of changing into a full-time Firefighter. It was right here that he devoted 24 years of honorable service to the Arlington Fireplace Division and the encircling communities.
His dedication to his name of service afforded him alternatives for promotions from Firefighter to Assistant Fireplace Chief after retiring on June 17, 2011. Ben additionally served as Fireplace Chief for Prince George’s County and Orlando, FL.
He holds a Grasp of Science Diploma in Administration from John Hopkins College and a Licensed Public Supervisor certificates from George Washington College.
He achieved Govt Fireplace Officer designation from the Nationwide Fireplace Academy in Emmetsburg, Maryland, and was acknowledged by the Middle of Public Security Excellence Fee on Skilled Credentialing as a Chief Fireplace Officer.
Sadly, Ben was recognized in April 2024 with Glioblastoma. Whereas his physique might have succumbed to the most cancers, his spirit soared above it.
Ben’s funeral shall be held on the First Baptist Church of Glenarden in Higher Marlboro, MD, at 11 a.m. on Monday, Might 12, 2025, and reside streamed at FBCGlenArden.org/funeralviewing. The household plans to carry a memorial service in Clarksburg at a later date.
A scholarship fund shall be established in lieu of flowers.
