Benjamin Salas

Benjamin “Ben” David Tabus Salas, passed away unexpectedly on April 26, 2023, in Raleigh, NC. He was only 21 years old. His family is deeply saddened by his sudden death. Benjamin was born on March 6, 2002.

Ben is survived by his father Anthony Salas and mother Katherine Salas. Forever remembered by his siblings, Christine Murray-Rudy and her husband Mitch Rudy, Michael Kelly and his wife Alisha Galdames, Curtis Croson and Annamarie Salas. He is also loved and remembered by his nephews Elijah Anthony and Ezra Daniel and his many close friends and teammates.

Ben was predeceased by his grandfather, David McGuire.

Ben was born at Frederick Memorial Hospital in Frederick, Maryland. He grew up in Martinsburg, West Virginia and then Tampa, Florida, attended Paul R Wharton High School and was a junior student-athlete at NC State University majoring in Criminology and minoring in Psychology. He was a decorated member of the Rifle team, as well as a member of the US National team.

Ben was a fun-spirited soul who was known for his kindness and his infectious laugh. Ben had such a profound impact on everyone around him. He loved his sport so much and wanted to see it grow. He was always willing to help others, just as so many others did for him. He was accomplished and an inspiration to many. He loved fishing, music, a good practical joke and was a great friend to everyone who knew him. Ben was loved by everyone – his family, his friends, his teammates, his competitors and his girlfriend, Stephanie Allan. He will be forever missed.

A Celebration of Life was held on Saturday, May 20, 2023, from 2pm to 7pm at the Gastonia Conference Center,145 Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Way, Gastonia, NC 28056.

In lieu of flowers, donate to the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention (AFSP.org), a voluntary health organization that gives those affected by suicide a nationwide community empowered by research, education and advocacy to take action against this leading cause of death.

Brown-Wynne Funeral Home, 300 Saint Mary's St., Raleigh is serving the Salas family.