Benjamin Howell Brister, known for his kindness, loyalty and generosity, passed peacefully into eternity on October 10, 2023. Born July 9, 1937 in Kerens, Texas, Ben grew up with a love of education, sports and the outdoors. After graduating from Kerens High School, Ben attended Baylor University where he graduated in 1959. He also spent time in the Army National Reserve at the height of the Bay of Pigs invasion.
For nearly 40 years, Ben had a successful career with JC Penney as an Information Technology executive in New York City, Salt Lake City and Plano. He and his first wife, Gayle, made their home in McKinney before Gayle’s passing in 1998.
In 2000, Ben married his lifelong friend Jo Brashear. They enjoyed traveling and playing bridge and golf at El Dorado Country Club. They were active members of First Christian Church in Garland, Texas.
Ben is preceded in death by his parents Howell and Willie Ethel Brister and his brother Robert Brister. He is survived by his wife, Jo; son Kevin Brashear and his wife Bekki of Sachse, Texas; son Kyle Brashear of Nevada, Texas; son Kelly Brashear and his wife Laurie of Plano, Texas; and grandchildren Grant and Sophie Brashear of Plano, Texas; as well several nieces, nephews, and other loving relatives. A Celebration of Life will be held on Thursday, October 19 at 10:00am at First Christian Church Garland followed by a reception. Donations may be made in Ben’s honor to First Christian Church Garland.
Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be shared at www.Sparkman-Hillcrest.com for the Brister family.
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