Benjamin Voss

Colonel Benjamin Voss a distinguished fighter pilot and veteran of the Korean War and Vietnam passed away peacefully on December 11, 2024, at the age of 96. A dedicated member of the United States Air Force, Colonel Voss’ remarkable career spanned more than three decades, during which he served his country with valor, honor, and leadership.

Born on July 29, 1928 in Quitman, Mississippi Benjamin Voss developed a passion for aviation at a young age. He enlisted in the U.S. Air Force in 1950, shortly after the outbreak of the Korean War. As a fighter pilot,he flew numerous combat missions, contributing to the defense of South Korea in the early days of the Cold War. His skill and courage in the cockpit earned him several commendations, including the Combat Cross and the Meritorious Air Medal. In addition, Mr. Voss was recognized by the 99’s with a Civilian Amelia Earhart Award.

After the Korean War, Colonel Voss continued to rise through the ranks of the Air Force, becoming a respected leader and mentor to countless airmen. His service took him to bases around the world, where he held various leadership positions, including as an instructor pilot and as the commanding officer of multiple squadrons and wings. As a senior officer, Voss’ strategic insights and emphasis on discipline and camaraderie helped shape the future of the Air Force during the Cold War and beyond.

After being honorably discharged from 12 years of active duty service, he joined the reserve unit at Barksdale Air Force Base flying C-119s boxcar later converting to C-124 Globemaster becoming an instructor pilot. He continued in his role as an instructor pilot until 1970 when the unit converted to the fighter aircraft A-37 Dragon fly 47th SOG; therein, he rose to the rank of LTC. As squadron commander of the A-37, he successfully graduated from the Air Force Top Gun School at Nellis AFB.

Voss retired from the reserves in 1980 with the rank of Colonel. His legacy as a fighter pilot, tactician, and mentor left an indelible mark on the Air Force and on the lives of those who served alongside him. Even after his retirement, he remained active in veteran affairs and continued to support the Air Force through various charitable organizations. His service to his country continued as he served FAA as an operations inspector where he became the first FAA inspector in history to receive the Department of transportation secretary’s award for valor for saving two men’s lives over two separate incidents. After retiring from the FAA, he started his own LLC Voss Aviation consultants as a FAA designated Pilot examiner. his wife Mary Jo joined him at Royale as ground instructor on the EMB-110 and Grumman G-1159. Both Benny and Mary Jo retired in 1989. After leaving Royale Airlines, they embarked on a series of adventures taking Benny and Mary Jo all over the world until Mary Jo’s passing in 2012. Mary Jo’s passing is still felt deeply throughout the Voss family.

Mr. Voss went to work for Royale Airlines as an Operations Examiner and Instructor Pilot.

In addition to his military career, Colonel Voss was a dedicated family man. He is preceded in death by his wife of 61 years, Mary Jo and two sons Rex and Scotty Voss.

He leaves two surviving children and their spouses; Darryl and Cindy Voss, and Candy and Buzzy Rosalee. He also left behind 8 grandchildren; Jo Marie and Michael McCarty, Jason Voss, Micah and Amanda Strother, Jeff Voss, Joey Voss, Nikki Williams, Julie and Herman Leong, and Matt Voss. Mr. Voss was proud to have lived long enough to have 12 great grandchildren Jordan, Kristina and Willie, Thomas, Parker and Katelyn, Jaida, Jack, Hannah Claire, Jacob, Jeremy, Oliver Benjamin and Chloe Ann and 5 great grandchildren Aaliyah Marie, Cash, Carter, Kutter and Gunner. His children and grandchildren admired and loved him deeply. He was survived by numerous nieces and nephews that will miss him greatly. His family, friends, and fellow servicemen will remember him for his unwavering dedication, his sharp mind, and his deep sense of duty.

A memorial service will be held at Hillcrest funeral home and Cemetery, where Colonel Voss will be laid to rest with full military honors. In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made to the Air Force Association or a veterans’ charity of your choice.

Colonel Voss’ legacy of service, sacrifice, and leadership will continue to inspire future generations of airmen and women.

The family would like to thank family friend Paula Bain for her care and attention to Benjamin over the last few years of his life.

Survived by Nancy Voss.