Lady Nancy E. Benjamin

Lady Nancy Edwards Benjamin was born on May 22, 1955 in Charleston, SC. She was the fourth child of 9 children to late Rev. Caswell Ewards Sr. and Nancy Edwards. Having the same name as her mother, her mother gave her the nickname of Dede, which everyone in the family called her. Her family attend at St. Paul AME Church where she built her faith. During her senior year, she moved to Oklahoma due to her father’s military career, where she ultimately received her diploma. Although she didn’t complete her senior year at Baptist Hill, she always considered it her true home. In 1974, Nancy entered Benedict College in Columbia, South Carolina, where she majored in accounting. It was there that she formed lifelong friendships that would shape her future. Among her closest friends was Mabeline Evans Wise, her college roommate who introduced her to the love of her life Rubin H. Benjamin. Initially, neither of them could fathom the idea of dating their best friend, but as time passed, their deep friendship blossomed into a love that would last a lifetime. Nancy and Rubin’s relationship was built on mutual respect, laughter, and trust—a foundation that proved unshakeable. Together, they raised daughters, supported one another through life's challenges, and created a home filled with warmth and love. After graduating from Benedict College, Magna Cum Laude, with a BA in Accounting, her professional journey began at General Motors. She dedicated 41 years of her life to the GM. Starting as an accountant, Nancy quickly proved her exceptional skill and determination, advancing to the role of Senior Buyer. She retired from GM in 2019. As a member of the church First Lady Benjamin has always remained very active in the church. Whether it was working with Pastor Benjamin in creating the Feed my Sheep ministry or serving as a Sunday School teacher, planning Back To School Fair, or as an advisor of the Women’s Ministry, she has been a part of various ministries throughout her life. First Lady Benjamin has been an Usher, served on the Choir, Trustee Board, and as a Deaconess all before becoming a First Lady of Beulah First. Her willingness to serve has been at the foundation of many of the church’s successful ministries. Nancy’s faith was the cornerstone of her life, and her tireless work within the church reflected her commitment to God and her community. Her legacy of service to the Lord and to others will be remembered by the many lives she touched through her work at church and beyond. She was known for her warm smile, kind spirit, and the unwavering love she had for her family. As a member of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc. for 50 years, she Psi Chapter at Benedict College in 1975 and was set to celebrate her Golden membership this year. Throughout her decades of service to Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc. Nancy held several leadership roles, including Chaplain, AKATeen Chairman/Co-Chairman for over 10 years, HBCU Chairman/Co-Chairman for 3 years, Assistant Secretary, and as the Education Advancement Foundation Chairman. Nancy’s most profound impact in Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc came through her work with the AKATeen program, where she mentored countless teenage girls in the Metro Detroit area. Her guidance and support helped shape the lives of many young women. One of her most significant achievements was co-founding the Pearls of Service Foundation Pink and White Scholarship Ball, which recognizes the scholastic achievements and community service of AKATeens. Over the past 19 years, this event has awarded thousands of dollars in scholarships to young African American women in Metro Detroit, continuing Nancy's legacy of mentorship and empowerment. Nancy also served as a board member of the Pearls of Service Foundation, where she was the Secretary, maintaining the organization’s minutes, updating its bylaws, and supporting various committees. Those who knew Nancy remember her infectious laugh, her love of shopping, and her endless hours spent talking on the phone with friends and family. Although she lived in Ohio and Michigan for over 40 years, building a newfound family. She never missed an opportunity to travel back to Hollywood, SC to see her family. She cherished the times spent at cookouts on the 4th of July, cruises, traveling to Hilton Head, and especially the joy of cooking for her entire family on Christmas Day. Christmas was her favorite time of year, and she made sure that everyone felt loved and taken care of through her thoughtful gift-giving. For Nancy, family was everything—she understood that family is the foundation of all things, and she worked hard to maintain strong, loving relationships with those she held dear. Nancy’s life was a testament to the power of service, leadership, and community. She leaves behind a legacy of love, faith and generosity that will continue to impact the lives of countless individuals for years to come. Nancy’s commitment to her family, church, Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, and the community has created an indelible mark on all who knew her. Nancy leaves to cherish her memory, her loving husband, Pastor Rubin H. Benjamin, their children Aundra Walker (Jason Walker husband), Aubry Baugh (Roosevelt Baugh II husband), Grandchildren, Emma-Marie Walker, Grace Baugh and Roosevelt Baugh III, and her Mother Nancy Edwards, and a host of Family, Friends, and fellow Sorority Sisters who were touched by her life.

Lady Nancy E. Benjamin

May 22, 1955 - April 5, 2025