Benjamin Dean Jeffries, 70, of Montague, Michigan, passed away at home on Tuesday, May 5, 2026.
Ben was born on April 9, 1956, and joined the loving family of William and June Jeffries. Growing up, Ben lived in many places as his family followed his father’s career.
Ben enjoyed a career in Information Technology, working at Howmet Aerospace in Computer Operations, supporting the IBM mainframe. He later worked for New Era Canning Company.
Ben met Ann Wyngaarden while working together at Howmet Aerospace, and they married in 1986. Ben and Ann built a life centered around faith and family, sharing almost 40 years of marriage together.
Ben was a devoted member of Ferry Memorial Reformed Church, where he served in many roles, including Deacon, Elder, Sunday School teacher and snow removal team member. His faith in Christ was steadfast, and he found great encouragement, friendship and comfort from his church family.
Family was Ben’s greatest joy. He loved skiing at Nub’s Nob ski resort, swimming in the pool, coaching Little League baseball and softball, and cooking and grilling. He treasured time spent with his family at Upper Silver Lake, and he especially adored being a grandfather. Ben’s final communication was sharing his excitement and love for his newest grandchild, Mason.
Many knew Benjamin as “Big Ben," a nickname that reflected both his large stature and personality. He will be remembered for blue Christmas lights, endless jokes, dedication to yard work, willingness to help neighbors, unwavering faith and deep love for those closest to him. He often shared stories from his childhood adventures, especially swimming in nearby lakes and helping to build his aunt’s family cottage.
The family extends heartfelt gratitude to the kidney and cardiology teams at Trinity Health and to the caregivers at DaVita Kidney Care for the compassionate care and support they provided over the last several years.
Benjamin is survived by his loving wife Ann; two children, Stuart (Clarissa Smith) Jeffries and Laura (Juan Dominguez) Jeffries, beloved grandchildren, Vera, Mason and Aria. Brother William E. Jeffries Jr., nephews, cherished aunts and cousins also survive him.
Ben was preceded in death by his parents, William E. Jeffries Sr. and June Jeffries. Two brothers, James and Timothy, also preceded Ben in death.
Visitation was held on Friday, May 15, 2026, at Beacon Cremation & Funeral Service, White Lake Chapel. Memorial Services were held at 11 a.m., Saturday, May 16, 2026, at Ferry Memorial Reformed Church in Montague, with a private interment in Woodlawn East Cemetery, Grand Rapids.
