Life's Reflections

Our God who is infinite in wisdom, eternal in love, one who knows no change nor shadow of alteration, but remains divinely perfect throughout all ages has come near to us and removed from our midst our beloved.

So we humbly submit to the will and providence of him who declared for I redeemed thee, I have called thee by name, thou art mine, Ben Wiley Payton, born to the union of Philip Payton and Mary Virginia Lumpkins on January 5, 1948 in the delta, rural city of Coila, Mississippi.

Ben acquired an education in the school system of Mississippi, notably, Broad Street, Blackhawk Elementary, L. S. Rogers and Amanda Elzy in Greenwood and other surrounding cities before moving to Chicago, Illinois with his family. He completed his high school years at Forestville High School. He later traveled to Africa where he discovered valuable life lessons.

Upon his return, Ben worked in several industries and companies which included Campbell Soup Company, United Parcel Service and American Coupling Company.

At age 9 Ben accepted Christ and was baptized at Mount Pleasant MB Church in Blackhawk, Mississippi.

In 1977 he united with New Mount Vernon MB Church under the pastorage of Reverend Cleve Minter whom he affectionately respected as father, friend and mentor. He served as Minister of Music and with his guitar added a different, unique sound to round out the voices of the choir during worship services. He also worked with the youth group and choir.

Also in 1977 between the music and ministry, he met Doris Bryant in the sanctuary of New Mount Vernon. On December 25, 1977 he married Doris Bryant and their union produced five daughters. Their home and life was filled with laughter, love and music.

In May of 1978, Ben publicly acknowledged his elevation to minister of the Gospel.

During the summer of 1992 Reverend Payton accepted the appointment of pastor of Divine Providence MB Church, Chicago, Illinois. The ministry and mission focused on the forgotten, down trodden and the hopeless of Chicago's Westside. The ministry birthed the Outreach Ministry, a platform where those marginalized groups voices were heard and their lives found meaning. He served as pastor until the doors closed in 2003. After this closure the Lord redirected his gifts and talents to reach many souls with his music and guitar.

He performed at various venues such as the Library of Congress and Kennedy Center both in Washington, DC, a 2 time performer at London's Blues Festival and was featured 8 times on the main stage at the world famous Chicago Blues Festival. Ben taught at Boston's renowned Berkley College of Music. In 2015 a career milestone was achieved when he recorded 2 full length blues albums of his original music. Ben continued to perform all over the world up until his untimely passing.

Ben perfected his craft and set his sights on the gift that pulled on his heart strings. His passion fueled his study of the rich heritage and legacy of our people through the lyrics in song of their struggles. Ben has been quoted saying " No matter what your skills, whether you're a good janitor, good construction worker or a good blues musician-glorifying Him through what you do, that's what it's all about." His music was his true passion and it showed through every aspect and performance.

Ben departed this life on December 4, 2020. He leaves wonderful, loving, fun and precious memories with his loving wife of 43 years Doris, six daughters Gwen (James) Cooley, Neakia, Chandra, Kalea, DeShenna and Tamira Payton. Two granddaughters Shambrika and Haley; four sisters Katie (Willie Lee), Willie, Virginia and Patricia (Dan); four brothers Eddie, Willie George (Laura), Uzee (Robin), and Hugh Bond; seven sisters- in -law Dorothy, Essie, Ivy, Ella, Constance, Beverly and Angelique; seven brothers-in law Elmore, Elton, Marion, Bruce, Andrew, Michael and Steven. Maternal uncle Joe Burch (Earie), a special cousin, Macy Wooden, a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, musical colleagues, students, ministry family, friends and global followers of epic proportions.

Ben was proceeded in death by his parents, one brother, Thomas, two maternal aunts Bernice and Samella; four paternal aunts Sarah, Betsy, Willie and Polly Mae; two paternal uncles, Wiley and Henry.

Ben's life impacted people from all walks of life as he embodied the true spirit of Christ, representing a church without walls or borders. He was loving, warm with a welcoming smile that made everyone feel like an old friend. He was special and the void he left behind is vastly felt by all who knew and loved him.

Ben, take your rest as you have arrived and gone last mile of the way...