Mr. Ben R. Cleveland's Obituary
Mr. Ben R. Cleveland, 90, of Alexander City, passed away at Bill Nichols Veterans Home on December 29th, 2025. His life was a testament to his strong Christian values and his unwavering commitment to his family and community. Ben was a cherished husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather, brother, and friend who left an indelible mark on the hearts of all who knew him.
Born to Joseph Asbury Cleveland and Savannah Georgia Nelson Cleveland, Ben was a beacon of knowledge and wisdom from his early years. After graduating from Hackneyville High School, he went on to proudly serve his country as a Staff Sergeant in the United States Air Force. While in the Air Force he studied Russian Language at Syracuse University and then was stationed in Japan where he intercepted and interpreted Russian air communications. He later attended Covenant College in St. Louis, Missouri where he met the love of his life, Ellen Beth Doyen. They were married in 1959. He continued his education in accounting and began his career at Continental Can Company. In 1969, he moved his growing family to Alexander City where he worked for Donald Fox Accounting and later Citibank all the while completing a certification in accounting from the University of Wisconsin. Ben’s expertise and integrity eventually led to his position as the accountant for the City of Alexander City which he held for more than 30 years. He also served as the mayor of Alexander City from 1992 to 1996.
In Ben’s younger years, he earned his private pilot’s license and found joy in flying, embracing the freedom and perspective that came with soaring above the earth. In his later years he focused his passion on spiritual things and became an avid reader and student of scripture. He felt his greatest accomplishment was the publishing of his book, THE CULMINATION OF GOD’S NEW COVENANT OF GRACE, a work that reflected his deep understanding and love of his faith.
Ben's love for his family was unparalleled. He is survived by his loving wife, Ellen Beth Cleveland; daughters, Julie (Steve) Haynes and Joyful Leigh Cleveland; grandchildren, Geoffrey (Jenna) Haynes, Jennifer (Chase) Clanton, Josh Cleveland, Colton Cleveland, and Jacie (James) Vesrell; and great-grandchildren, Mary Charis Haynes, Ariana Haynes, and Lily Clanton. He also leaves behind his daughters-in-law, Angie Cleveland and Sheila Cleveland, and his sister, Myrtice Cotney as well as numerous nieces and nephews. His legacy continues through his family, who will forever cherish his memory. Ben was preceded in death by his parents, Joseph and Savannah Cleveland, and his sons, Jay Cleveland and Joey Cleveland as well as ten of his siblings, Heflin Cleveland, Byron Cleveland, Ida Mae Smith, Lucille Heart, Jack Cleveland, Ruth Voss, Robert Cleveland, Betty Gilbert and Jimmy Cleveland.
Mr. Ben R. Cleveland lived a life full of love, laughter, and service. His unwavering faith, gentle spirit, and sense of humor will be dearly missed by all who were fortunate enough to have known him. As we bid farewell to this remarkable man, we celebrate the enduring impact he made on his family, friends, and community. His story is one of love, dedication, and grace-a story that will continue to inspire generations to come.
The family will hold a memorial service at a later date to be announced. Memorial donations may be made to Mision Vida Nueva (305 Lancelot Lane, Opelika, AL 36801).
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