Harold "Ben" King

In Loving Memory of Harold “Ben” King

Ben King, a beloved husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather, and friend, passed away leaving behind a legacy of faith, service, compassion, and deep love for his family.

Ben was married to his beloved wife, Opal, for 28 years. He was the father of three daughters and welcomed two children through marriage, whom he loved and considered family. Family was one of the greatest joys of Ben’s life, and he treasured the time he spent with those he loved.

Ben was born September 1, 1932, to Hazel Hood-King and Chester King in Villa Grove, Illinois. He graduated from Villa Grove High School in 1950 and attended college for one year, studying business education. He then enlisted in the United States Air Force, serving four years. During the Korean War, he was commissioned as an officer and served as a maintenance squadron commander in Guam.

After his military service, Ben returned to Villa Grove and worked for the Illinois Central Railroad between Tuscola and Chicago as a brakeman and trainman. He was active in the VFW and volunteered as an honor guard, continuing his commitment to serving others.

In 1962, Ben moved to Minnesota to help his parents with their 100-acre farm in New London. He worked hard farming, growing crops, raising livestock, and helping neighbors in need. His generosity and willingness to serve others became a defining part of his life.

In 1976, Ben returned to college and earned a degree in chemical dependency counseling. He worked at Willmar State Hospital before becoming a department administrator at Crestview Treatment Center in Anderson, Indiana. In 2007, he began Sower of Seeds Recovery, continuing his passion for helping people find hope and healing.

Ben later retired to Tennessee to live with his daughter Penny and her family. He enjoyed DIY projects and household repairs, working on his truck, gardening, bird watching, visiting friends, retracing his family history, and learning more about God’s Word.

Above all, Ben was a devoted Christ follower. His faith shaped the way he loved his family, served others, and gave generously. He leaves behind an example of a life centered on Christ, family, and compassion.

Ben was preceded in death by his parents, Hazel Hood-King and Chester King; his brother, Lyman King; his sister, Roxie Ray King; his beloved wife, Opal King; his granddaughter, Crystal Lawson; and his stepdaughter, Melody Keirns.

He is survived by his daughters, Judy King, Benita King, and Penny Kelly; Tim Mattingly; his grandchildren, Christina Dunn, Jamie Hamilton, Michael Lawson, and Kevin Lawson; and his great-grandchildren, Mason Pommier, Liam Dunn, Audra Dunn, Jack Hamilton, and Stella Hamilton.

A graveside service will be held at 2:30 pm, Saturday, September 26, 2026 at East Maplewood Cemetery, Anderson, Indiana. Visitation will be held from 1-2pm Saturday at Bozell Funeral Homes & Crematory, Brown-Butz-Diedring Chapel, 515 E. 53rd Street, Anderson, Indiana.

Ben will be deeply missed by his family and friends. His memory will live on through the people he loved, the lives he touched, the kindness he showed, and the faith he shared. His family finds comfort knowing that he is now home with his Lord and Savior.