Benjamin Edward Brown, 64, of West Columbia, South Carolina, passed away unexpectedly on July 3, 2025, in Lexington, South Carolina. Born on October 6, 1960, in Columbia, South Carolina, Ben lived a life marked by dedication to his family, service to his community, and a deep appreciation for the outdoors.

A proud 1978 graduate of Brookland Cayce High School and attending Midlands Technical College, Ben pursued a career that reflected both his technical skill and his commitment to public service. Ben was employed by Gregory Electric Company and John Harland Company prior to finding his passion working for the Columbia Fire Department. He served as an Engineer with the fire department from 1988 until his retirement in 2011. His years with the department were defined by courage and professionalism. In addition to his work with the fire department, Ben was employed at Blythewood Oil for over 20 years, where he continued to demonstrate reliability and integrity in all he did.

Ben also served his country honorably as a Staff Sergeant and F-16 Crew Chief in the Air National Guard from 1985 to 1993. He served in active duty in Operation Desert Shield and Operation Desert Storm. His military service was a source of pride and reflected his lifelong sense of duty and responsibility.

Ben's greatest joy came from spending time with those he loved.

He is survived by his devoted wife of 43 years, Cindy Brown; his son Jacob Brown and Jacob's partner Michaela Sanner; and his daughter Rebekah Brown. He was a cherished brother to Roger Brown (Carolyn), brother-in-law to Fran Elrod (Larry) and Rob McMahon (Jennifer), many nieces, nephews, great- nieces and great-nephews as well as a very large extended family and many friends.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Dennis and Mae Brown; and by his parents-in-law, Robert and Ann McMahon.

Ben found peace and joy in nature—whether on the golf course at Charwood Golf Course or out hunting—and especially treasured traveling with Cindy and his family. He was also a member of the Midlands Senior Golf Association and the Charwood Golf Club 'Dog Fight' group. These adventures created lasting memories that will be cherished by all who shared them.

A Celebration of Life will be held at 2:00 pm, Sunday, July 13, 2025, at Shives Funeral Home, Trenholm Road Chapel, 7600 Trenholm Road Ext. Columbia, SC 29223. The Reverend Fran Elrod will preside. A reception will follow the service at the funeral home.

The family would like to extend thanks to the Lexington County EMS, South Congaree Fire Department, and the staff at Lexington Medical Center for their care and compassion during this difficult time.

In lieu of flowers, the family asks that donations be made in Ben's memory to the American Heart Association ( https://www.heart.org ) or a charity of your choice.