Clarence Benjamin "Ben" Jackson, Jr.

Born on November 1, 1948, in Beaufort County, Ben was the son of the late Clarence Benjamin Jackson and Lillian Winfield Jackson.

Ben grew up in rural Beaufort County, where his lifelong love of the outdoors first took root. This early passion shaped both his personal life and his career. For 30 years, he served with dedication as a Marine Patrol Officer in Pender, Onslow and New Hanover Counties, becoming a familiar and respected presence along the coast. Known for his quiet courage and unwavering commitment to protecting local marine resources, Ben balanced firm law enforcement with a deep desire to conserve the environment.

In addition to his work in marine patrol, Ben proudly served in both the Army National Guard and the United States Air Force and also later worked with the Pender County Sheriff’s Office. His sense of duty extended beyond uniform—he never met a stranger and was known for his gift of gab, a trait that endeared him to friends, colleagues, and community members alike.

Ben shared 46 years of marriage with his beloved wife, Joanna Thomson Jackson of Hampstead. Together, they built a life filled with love, laughter, and shared hobbies. One of their greatest joys was model railroading. He and Joanna spent countless hours collaborating with fellow club members and in their workshop designing and building intricate model railroad layouts. Their layouts were a labor of love that they proudly shared with visiting friends, family, and fellow club members.

He is survived by Joanna; his daughter, Susan Benson Herring of Currie; his son, Michael Benson (Pam) of Currie; 2 granddaughters, 5 great-granddaughters & 1great-grandson; and many nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his brother, George Winfield Jackson; his sister, Marky Jackson Boss; and his sister, Mamie “Tootsie” Gertrude Jackson Cox.

The family extends heartfelt gratitude to the nurses, doctors, and aids of Hospice for the compassionate care provided to Ben during his illness.

Family and friends are invited to visitation on Sunday, July 26, from 4–6 p.m. at Andrews Mortuary Hampstead Chapel. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to Semper Fi & America’s Fund, the Gary Sinise Foundation, or the Lower Cape Fear Life Care Foundation.

Ben Jackson will be remembered as a devoted husband, a proud veteran, a guardian of North Carolina’s coastal waters, and a man whose kindness and conversation could brighten any day. His legacy lives on in the community he served, the family he loved, and the countless lives he touched.