On October 23, 1938, an angel was born to Polin and Lillian Ben in Ville Platte, Louisiana. They named him Whitney Ben. He was the eighth child of nine children. Whitney gained his wings on Saturday, May 16, 2026.

He attended James Stephen School in Ville Platte, Louisiana. Whitney accepted Christ at an early age and was baptized by the late Rev. C. Frank at Mount Pilgrim Baptist Church. While attending James Stephen School, he met the love of his life, Evelyn Edwards. They later married in 1958 in Ville Platte, Louisiana. To this union, four beautiful children were born.

In 1970, Whitney and Evelyn moved their family to Houston, Texas, where they joined Christian Faith Missionary Baptist Church under the leadership of Pastor Leroy Joseph. Whitney faithfully served on the deacon board there for many years. Later, they became members of Holy Bible Missionary Baptist Church under the leadership of the late Pastor Kernis Ardoin and Pastor Rodney Ben. They later joined Greater Faith Missionary Baptist Church under the late Pastor Anthony Runis and currently served under Pastor John Ben Sr.

Whitney loved fishing, working in his yard, cooking, singing, and most of all, spending time with his family. He was a loving husband, father, grandfather, and friend whose presence brought joy to everyone around him.

Whitney was preceded in death by his father, Polin Ben; his mother, Lillian Ben; his beloved wife of 63 years, Evelyn Ben; his son, James Ben Sr.; his daughter, Rose Scott; three brothers, Lawrence Ben, Calvin Ben, and Tilman Ben; four sisters, Gladys Ardoin, Mildred Ardoin, Matilda Wilson, and Lonius Richard; and one goddaughter, Anna Edwards.

He leaves to cherish his memories: his daughter, Savannah Gilbert (Kenneth); his son, John Ben Sr. (Sheila), all of Houston, Texas; one brother, Rayfield Ben Sr. (Elva) of Houston, Texas; two goddaughters, Annie Guillory and Shirley Lafleur; one sister-in-law, Orelia Edwards; 16 grandchildren; 26 great-grandchildren; 4 great-great-grandchildren; and a host of nieces, nephews, relatives, and friends.