I hadn't kept in touch with Ben for many years and so was stunned to learn of his passing away, because he lived life so richly. Ben was truly remarkable as a friend and schoolmate, and it's impossible to convey that properly. If you knew him well then you already know what I mean: everything I could say falls so very short of the man. I am deeply grieved that he has passed away, though his family and we friends can take comfort that he is with his Savior.  I will always remember Ben. He was the kindest, best fellow I ever knew. Reading the entries of loved ones here reflects his heroic life. His wife and family have my deepest sympathy and prayers.

Lisa- My heart goes out to you and those sweet precious blessings that you and Ben made together. You will always be a family and this time apart is temporal. I pray that you are filled with God's spirit, comfort and light. Much Love to you and your sweet family. -JoAnne

Ben was a rarity in this day and age. He possessed an abundance of those qualities many of us seem devoid of at times, namely humor, wit, devotion, and authenticity.
As good a friend as I shall ever have – has passed on … 
May the Gods speed his journey.

I now know what it means to literally have your heart ache. Our family will be there for yours Benny. xoxo

So very sorry for your loss.  I went to school with Ben and he was a great person.  He will be sadly missed.

My thoughts and prayers are with you as words can't express my sadness.  I met Ben in my early twenties thru mutual friends and ran into him over the years at music events and parties.  He will be truly missed!!!

So very shocked and saddened to hear about Ben's sickness and his passing...RIP my friend...You will always be remembered...It was a honor knowing such and nice and friendly gentleman/classmate in school...May God Bless your family during this hard time of sadness and give them much strength...Heaven has now gained another beautiful angel...

I had the good fortune of running into Ben every few years after Webb just like cosmic clockwork. He was one of the "good ones." He demonstrated his character by how he treated others, and in the end, how he rose to battle his cancer and handle it in a very brave manner. Bravo, Ben. I know he worried about his wife and children... his blessings. He will always be watching over you, and sending you a laugh. My deepest sympathy to you, Lisa, Piper and Bennett, and the rest of your family. May happy memories comfort you. He will be missed.

It is such sad news to hear about Ben's passing.  My words seem so inadequate and a piece of my history has left this earth.  We were roommates our Sr. yr. at The Webb School.  There were so many many good memories; such as going to Hohenwald to see Mom Anderson and Harvey.  I grieve most for his family and pray that their memory of him will always be a comfort and blessing.

Joyce and Family, we are sorry for your loss and will keep you and your family in our prayers.

I was so sorry to hear of Ben's passing. I pray that God will comfort his children and his wife. I also pray for his mother, Joyce, he got that friendliness, and wonderful smile from her. 
Jane Wayland(Hohenwald, TN)

I am so very sorry to hear of Ben's passing.  Prayers of comfort and peace are with you all during this difficult time.

I lived with Ben for a year. You learn a lot about a man when you do that. I learned that Ben likes to laugh. And he can make you laugh too. No matter the time or place.

My kids go to the same pre-school as Ben and Lisa's.  I am used to seeing them a few times a week, always with smiles, always with kind words and gestures.  Even in Ben's last months, he continued to put on his best face and attitude.  They are a beautiful family and Ben's smile will be missed.

Ben's family and friends are in my prayers. Ben was always such a friendly guy in school. Reading these tributes it sounds like he remained just like I remember him. I hope that happy memories will bring you all peace & comfort.

Ben had a little nickname for everyone, and they were always insightful in some weird and gifted way.  He was ironic and funny without being cynical - a rare trait. He was kind and generous.  Ben enjoyed and lived life.  And for the rest of us he often showed us the way to do the same.  I will miss his crooked grin, with his head cocked just sideways. inevitably following some quirky observation the rest of us missed.

I am thankful to have known Ben who was a great friend to many at Vanderbilt and the Pi Kappa Alpha fraternity.  I'll always remember his mild temperament and great sense of humor.  My thoughts and condolences go out to his wife, children and extended family.

I am so sorry for what you are going through. Ben was a good friend in high school -- He was so hilarious and made away basketball games bearable :)

Ben was one of my best friends growing up and he was one of the funniest people I ever met.  Baseball, overnight stays, swimming, golfing, high school...We will miss you dear friend.

Simply put, one of the nicest and most genuine people I have had a privilege to know in my life.

Ben was a friend and fraternity brother - he was always happy, witty, smiling, funny, generous and helpful - I am deeply saddened - miss him greatly - fortunate to have had the opportunity to know him.

what an amazing man
what a beautiful family

Ben could always cheer you up, even from his hospital bed.  He has always been one of the most approachable people I've known and he could meet you on your own terms and quickly put you at ease.  There was never any pretense with Ben.  He'd say hello to anyone, probably remember their name, and recall what was talked about in case they met again.  We'll all miss you Ben … for your great sense of humor, loyalty, insights about people and things, and always good natured way.  Our hearts pour out especially to Lisa, Piper, young Thom, and Joyce … but also to our collective loss.  We hope that the love of so many friends helps in some small way to fill the void Ben leaves.

Have to agree with Jane Lee. Ben always seemed to have a smile on his face and a great sense of humor about it all.I really enjoyed seeing him at Vandy football games. RIP my freind.

Mrs. Joyce, and family. Our thoughts and prayers are with you all during this time.

So sorry for your family's loss. Please know I'm here if you need anything.

Ben Anderson makes me want to be a better person. I will miss him and that wonderful sense of humor. Rest in peace dear friend.

Ben was a good friend, fraternity brother, and long time Vanderbilt fan.   We went to many games and had many a good times together.  You will be missed by all.  Love ya Benji.

i will always miss ben,he was a lot of fun and always cared about others first.

Our love to you all.  May God's grace and love comfort you at this time.

Linda McCutcheon Smith and David Wm Smith

Lisa, sorry to hear of your loss. My prayers are with you and your family.

A great loss ; we are deeply saddened by his passing.

You could always count on Ben's smile... A devoted father, husband, and friend. Ben, you will be missed by all those who we're lucky enough to have met you.

Ben was my dearest friend of nearly 30 years.  His humor, wit and smile will be missed deeply.

Ben made a huge impact on my life while we lived in Aspen and worked for the Hotel Jerome.  1994 - 1996 - I am grateful we had a friendship and I  will always remember his kindness and patience and caring nature!!  Also, will never forget his love for music !!

I am so sorrow to hear of the passing of Ben. May God comfort you during this time of grief and loss.

OBITUARY

Thom Bennett Anderson

February 19, 1965 – March 9, 2013

Marshall-Donnelly-Combs Funeral Home

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