James Walter “Jimmy” Benson Jr., of Montgomery, Alabama, passed away on October 11, 2025, at the age of 56. Born on September 23, 1969, in Wichita, Kansas, Jimmy was the beloved son of the late Yvonne Ann Benson and James Walter Benson Sr.

He graduated from Jefferson Davis High School in Montgomery, Alabama, with the Class of 1987. Jimmy proudly served his country in the United States Navy, where he developed the skills and discipline that later led to his position at IBM in Charlotte, North Carolina, after relocating there with his family.

Shortly after, he sustained a traumatic brain injury that changed the trajectory of his life. Against all odds, Jimmy survived multiple medical crises and defied every prediction that he would never walk, talk, or recognize his loved ones again. His one and only child was born shortly after that, and up until his last days, he made sure the world knew how proud he was of her. We believe her impending arrival was the reason he fought so hard to find his way back to us.

Through sheer determination and willpower, he reclaimed his independence and continued to be a living reminder of strength and resilience.

Jimmy was a gifted storyteller who could keep a room engaged by saying what everyone else was thinking. He absolutely loved to eat and could never get enough of his momma’s cooking—often requesting a “man-sized plate.” Even though Jimmy came up during the Golden Age of Hip-Hop, he could just as easily be caught softly singing one of his favorites — “Butterflies” by Michael Jackson or “Charlene” by Anthony Hamilton. That mix of soul and style summed him up perfectly — tough when life called for it, but tender at his core. He loved a good game of Spades, and anyone who ever played with him knows what it was like to be on the losing end when he ran the table, slamming down cards before you could think about your next move. He was fiercely competitive and believed there was nothing he couldn’t win at.

Prior to his passing, Jimmy rededicated his life to the Lord, embracing his faith with a humble heart and gratitude for the second chances he’d been given. He will always be remembered by his closest friends for his fearlessness—the first to try anything, loyal to a fault, and never afraid to tell it like it is.

Jimmy is survived by his daughter, Jatoriya Benson; his sister, Alecia Smith (Howard); nieces, Jymecia Benson and Kemayaa Huntley (Curtney); and nephew, Christopher Benson (Whitney). He is also survived by great-nephews Cameron, Semaj, and Khyrin, along with a host of relatives and friends who loved him dearly.

We will gather to remember and celebrate the life of Jimmy on Saturday, November 15, 2025, at 12:00 PM, at Nevins Park, where family and friends will share memories, laughter, and love in his honor. A Water and Candle Ceremony will also be held to symbolize peace, reflection, and the light of his spirit that continues to shine within us.