Benjamin Thomas Wages Jr.

Benjamin Thomas Wages Jr. died June 16, 2026, at the age of 66. He was born on April 5, 1960, in Dallas, Texas. The Wages family moved to Memphis in 1961, a city that would remain central to his life and work.

Ben graduated high school in 1978. From there, he spent two years at Millsaps College in Jackson, MS before he transferred to The University of Tennessee, Knoxville where he earned a Bachelor of Science degree in Communications. He then served four years in the United States Army, achieving the rank of Sergeant. Upon his return, he attended Memphis State University Cecil C. Humphreys School of Law and completed his Juris Doctor degree. He then practiced law in Memphis for many years. In a career change, Ben attended Le Cordon Bleu College of Culinary Arts in Atlanta. After completion of his studies, he returned home and worked in the restaurant industry until his retirement.

Ben was preceded in death by his parents, Benjamin and Carolyn Wages. He is survived by his brother, David (Virginia); his nieces and nephew, Ashley Wages (Kelsey), Nichole Wages (Hugo), David Wages Jr. (Hannah), and Sarah Wages (Kyle); as well as six great nephews. He also leaves behind his life partner, Cindy Montgomery, and her daughter, Jordan.

Visitation will be held at Memphis Funeral Home, 5599 Poplar Ave, Memphis, TN 38119, on July 10, 2026, from 4:00 pm to 6:00 pm. Military Honors will take place at 5:00 pm.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be sent to St. Luke's United Methodist Church in care of the Food Ministry at 480 South Highland Memphis, TN 38111.