Malcolm Lee Benjamin

Malcolm “Mac” Lee Benjamin, age 85, passed away peacefully on May 16, 2025, at The Inn at Olentangy Trail in Delaware, Ohio.

Born January 18, 1940, in Briggsdale, Ohio, Mac was the son of the late Roy and Mary Elizabeth Benjamin. He proudly served in the U.S. Air Force, specializing in communication electronics systems aboard fighter jets. Following his military service, he joined Ryan Stormscope, where he built, installed, and calibrated sensor and display equipment for business and private aircraft. He later worked for Contronics, applying his skill and precision to intricate electronic components.

After relocating to Florida, Mac worked at Harris Corporation, contributing to technology used in the space shuttle program. Upon returning to Ohio, he briefly worked as a technician at Radio Shack before joining the City of Columbus, where he installed and maintained communication equipment for first responders. He retired after a career marked by quiet dedication and technical expertise.

Mac also held a civilian pilot’s license and found great joy in flying. His love of aviation became a personal passion that brought him great freedom and fulfillment.

He was a faithful member of the Columbus Church of Christ and was known for his humility, generosity, and quiet strength. Though soft-spoken, he built many lasting friendships and was deeply loved by those around him. An exceptional woodworker, Mac crafted beautiful, precise furniture for family, friends, and his church. Despite his talent, he remained modest, furnishing his own home with simple painted tables and repurposed materials, always putting others' comfort ahead of his own.

He is survived by his nephews Ed Rickard, Chris Rickard, Larry (Dani) Rickard, Gary (Cathy) Benjamin, and Randy (Kelli) Benjamin; his niece Jamie (Randy) Coleman; as well as several step-nieces and many great-nieces and great-nephews. He was preceded in death by his parents; his sister, Louise (Chet) Rickard; and his brother, David (Shirley) Benjamin.

A memorial service to celebrate Mac’s life will be announced at a later date.

In lieu of flowers, donations in Mac’s memory may be made to the Columbus Church of Christ, P.O. Box 141144, Columbus, Ohio 43214, or to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital at stjude.org.