Ben Proutt Jr. was born in Muskogee, Oklahoma on November 3, 1960 to the late Ben Sr. and Geneva Proutt.  He later moved to Cleveland, Ohio where he was joined in marriage to Zarina Louise Evans. This union blossomed when their only child Ben Proutt III, (nickname Tre’) was born.

Ben was employed at University Hospitals 20+ years; first as a Patient Transporter, and then after completing his electrical studies, he was promoted to his most recent position as an Electrician.

Over the years, some of Ben’s favorite pass times included tinkering with cars, trying to play the guitar, having a nice bourbon with a beer chaser and listening to soothing music, like George Clinton when he needed some ‘Funk’.

Ben was a laid back, easy going individual.  Anyone who knew him knows that he did not deal with drama. Although he was more reserved, he could always fit in with the crowd. He was a good father and a loyal husband.  His family was his first priority and he took his responsibilities seriously.

Ben departed this life on September 25, 2022.  He leaves to cherish his memory, his wife Zarina, his son Tre’, three sisters, Bennie Reed (David), Velma Jean Jones (Late Waldo E. Jones III), Octavia Carter, and one brother, Robert Lee Proutt (Rhonda) and a host of relatives and friends. 

His sister Glenda Faye Johnson preceded him in death.