Benjamin Kent Marshall Sr.

Rev. Marshall was the beloved husband of Lucy Maxine Marshall (Walker), with whom he shared 67 wonderful years of marriage. He was the son of the late Elizabeth Marie Cooke and was preceded in death by his siblings, Joanne Lanham, Roger Cooke, and Jeffery Cooke.

Affectionately known as "Reverend Ben" by the members of Zion Church Ministries in Everett, Massachusetts, he and his wife joined Zion in 1996. In 2002, Rev. Ben was ordained at Zion and served as the Administrative Pastor of Zion Church Ministries for 24 years, starting at the Zion MetroWest Church, in Framingham, MA, and continuing in that role at Zion in Everett.His dedication to serving others extended beyond the church. He devoted many years to the Framingham Public Schools, where he served as Director of the Student Referral Center before retiring in 2010.

Throughout his ministry, Rev. Ben served in many capacities in various associations and conventions. He actively supported the United Baptist Convention of MA, RI & NH, and the National Baptist Convention, USA, Inc. He was a former President of the Baptist Ministers’ Conference of Boston & Vicinity and a Congress President Staff Member of the National Baptist Congress of Christian Education for four years. His commitment to faith, education, and community left a lasting impact on all who knew him.

Rev. Ben was an army veteran, serving his country with love and pride. He also enjoyed talking with young people, which is why he enjoyed working with them at Framingham schools. He was an avid lover of the game of golf and in the summers, you could find him, Bishop Brown, Rev. Dubose, Bishop Shaird, and Rev. Shearer out on the links. He enjoyed animals, especially his dog, loved his pastor and church family, and took special joy, pleasure and pride in his family…but he loved his wife, Lucy, and God the most.

In addition to his loving wife, Lucy, he is survived by his son, Benjamin Kent Marshall, Jr.; his daughters, Deirdre Marie Lewis (Bolander) of Natick and Whitney Marshall of Worcester; his five grandchildren, Bolander, Danice, Danielle, Deanna, and Marshall; and his two great-grandchildren, Elijah and Joy.

He is also survived by his sister, Linda Lanham of Georgia; his brother, Gary Cooke of Connecticut; and many cherished nieces, nephews, extended family members, friends, and members of his church family.

Reverend Benjamin Kent Marshall will be remembered for his unwavering faith, compassionate leadership, dedication to education, and deep love for his family. His legacy of service, kindness, and devotion to God will continue to inspire all whose lives he touched.