Benjamin "Ben" W. Thompson

Benjamin “Ben” W. Thompson, age 83, of Canton passed away peacefully, surrounded by his loving family on, Friday, September 17, 2021. He was born in Luverne, Alabama on October 11, 1937 to the late Bishop and Vilettie (Bodiford) Thompson. He was a 1957 graduate of Canton McKinley. He married Sarah E. Thomas on October 24, 1964 and they shared nearly 57 years together. Ben worked at the Timken Company and Republic Steel for many years until obtaining his Barber license in 1973. He opened Fame City Kut and Kurl in 1980 and retired in 2000. Ben was active in the community working with the United Negro College Fund promoting and hosting Fashion Shows to fund scholarships for African American youth. He was actively involved within the Kingdom Hall of Jehovah’s Witness. Ben was an avid fisherman, photographer, classic car collector , sports enthusiast, but most importantly spending time with his family. He was known for his phenomenal sense of humor and enjoyed imparting his advice and wisdom unto others. He will forever be known as a devoted and loving husband, father, grandfather ”Pop Pop”, great grandfather, brother, uncle, friend and pillar of the community. He leaves to cherish memories his wife of 57 years Sarah E. Thompson; his children Jerry (Lois) Brunner, Jeanne Thompson, Jamice Thompson, Jamon (Karena) Thompson; his grandchildren, Tanisha, Denina (Carter), Micah, Shaunta’, Treyvon, Jamon, Cameron, Kailey, Kyra, Joi, Jamariya, his sister Merdis Bray; his brothers Willie Frank “Rags”(Marynell) Thompson, Elisha Thompson, James T. (Hope) Thompson and Bobby Edward Thompson and a host of great-grandchildren, nieces, nephews, cousins, family and friends. In addition to his parents, Ben was preceded in death by his daughter Jeanne Thompson; and a host of brothers and sisters. A Celebration of Ben’s life will be held on Saturday, September 25, 2021 at 11:00 a.m. at the Paquelet Funeral Home in Massillon, and will be livestreamed by clicking on: this zoom link . The family will recieve friends at the funeral home from 10:00a.m until the time of the service . Donations in Ben’s memory can be made to the Kingdom Hall of Jehovah’s Witness – 3611 Lesh Street NE, Canton, OH 44705. Continuing with COVID-19 precautions, all attending will be asked to follow proper social distancing protocol and masks are required. If you are not feeling well, or if you have a compromised immune system, you are encouraged to stay home.