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Captain Ben A. Wadsworth Jr. USN (Ret.)

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Ben Wadsworth Obituary

Captain Ben A. Wadsworth, Jr., USN (Ret.) CHARLESTON - Captain Ben A. Wadsworth, Jr. USN (Ret.), 86, of Charleston, SC, widower of Patricia Ann Wadsworth, entered into eternal rest on Tuesday, October 18, 2016, at Brookdale Senior living. The relatives and friends of Captain Ben A. Wadsworth, Jr. USN (Ret.) are invited to attend his Funeral Service at 11:00 AM, Monday, October 24, 2016, at St. Andrew's Church, 440 Whilden St., Mt. Pleasant. Burial, with Military Honors, will follow at Mount Pleasant Memorial Gardens. The family will receive friends between 2:00 and 4:00 PM, Sunday at the James A. McAlister Funeral Home 1620 Savannah Hwy. His Guestbook may be signed at www.CharlestonFunerals.com. Ben was born January 31, 1930, in Rock Mills, AL, the son of Ben Awbrey Wadsworth, Sr. and Marinel Bonner Wadsworth. His mother died when he was a young boy and he was raised by his step-mother, Anne Wadsworth. He was a southern gentleman, a faithful Christian and devoted father and husband. Ben was a mentor and teacher to children at Addleston Hebrew Academy and is still remembered by his students until this day. He taught science and history from 1985-2005. Ben was a life member, Master Mason. Everything he did, he set an example to strive toward. His family will always remember his inspirational blessings at meals which were filled with thoughtful praises to his Lord and Savior. He attended Auburn University, graduated from The United States Naval Academy in 1953 and also attended the Military War College. He received his MBA degree from Stanford University as well as his Masters in teaching from the Citadel. He was a respected Naval Officer, well loved by those he commanded and those he served under. Ben retired in 1981 after serving 32 years in the United States Navy, including time as midshipman. During his time in the United States Navy he served during the Vietnam War. He rose to O-6, Captain, and commanded the Naval Supply Depot in Yokosuka, Japan from 1975-1977 and was Assistant Comptroller of the Navy from 1977-1980. Ben is survived by three sons: Gregory Pickett Wadsworth, Andrew Bonner Wadsworth, Sr., Randolph Awbrey Meade Wadsworth; his Daughter-in-law Donna M. Wadsworth and his grand-daughter, Elizabeth Ross Wadsworth and grandson, Andrew B. Wadsworth, Jr. and step-grandson, Marc Jameson Fennessy. Ben is also survived by his sister, Betty Wadsworth Doan; two nephews: Bert Robert Hudson Doan, Jr. and Ben Wadsworth Doan and one niece, Bonna Anne Larson. Memorials contributions may be made to St. Andrew's Church, 440 Whilden St., Mt. Pleasant, SC 29464. Arrangements by James A. McAlister, Inc. 766-1365. Visit our guestbook at www.legacy.com/obituaries/ charleston

To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.

Published by Charleston Post & Courier from Oct. 20 to Oct. 21, 2016.

Memories and Condolences
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Austin Cohen

December 28, 2020

I was thinking of mentors and people who motivated me throughout my life and Mr. Wadsworth was one of them. I am so sad to hear of his passing but fortunate to have been taught by him and see his passion for science. I remember how excited he was for dissecting frogs and also when we first got CD's to learn from, which was groundbreaking in the 80's. I hope his family knows how much he meant to us students and this is 30 years ago that I still remember him.

Lynn Divine Conger

November 2, 2016

Greg, I am so sorry to hear of your father's passing. We are never ready to lose those we love no matter how old or sick they may be. I never had the pleasure of meeting your dad, but I feel sure the many fine traits I see in you are to a large degree a reflection of his values and abilities.

I know this is a difficult time for you, and I pray that your faith and the caring and support of friends will bring you strength and peace. My love and prayers are with you and Joy.

Lowcountry Science Fair First Prize Overall - thanks to Mr. Wadsworth!

Jonathan Zucker

October 27, 2016

A proud moment with Mr. Wadsworth (see my prior entry).

Jonathan Zucker

October 27, 2016

Captain Wadsworth, or as we knew him Mr. Wadsworth, was one of my most important childhood mentors. Of everyone I've had the opportunity to learn from, only he - and my late father - had such passion for science, and in particular, the passion and patience to share its wonders and lessons.

Looking back, I have countless fond and pleasant memories of Mr. Wadsworth and his lessons - from stories of his RV adventures, to School-in-the-Woods and the ever important tuna-can stove, to backyard astronomy, and stories of his tremendous service to our country.

One of the proudest moments for me (and I hope for Mr. Wadsworth as well) was when the science fair project that I dutifully conducted and presented per his assignment at AHA was recognized as the First Prize Overall at the Lowcountry Science Fair.

He was, without any question, one of the most influential teachers of my life - and I am eternally grateful that I had the opportunity to be his pupil.

May his memory always be a blessing.

Deborah Rice

October 25, 2016

Sad to hear that Ben has passed away. I had not seen him in years but fond memories of his family will always be in my heart. He was the step-son of my Aunt Ann (my daddy's sister) and he was always loved by my family. May God Bless.

Barbara Ribner

October 25, 2016

When I told my son of Mr. Wadsworth's death, his comment was, "He's the one who taught me to love science." And, he was a true gentleman.

October 23, 2016

A true gentleman and wonderful teacher--Rest in Peace.

Dan and Rae McKinnon

October 23, 2016

A wonderful man and Naval officer with a nonpareil career, where twice he was selected early for promotion. It seems so many years ago when he and his wonderful wife Patty were dear friends. Where did the time go. We will try to find his boys, who no doubt are wonderful too. Rear Admiral and Mrs. Daniel W. McKinnon, Jr. Dan and Rae.

Amy Rosen

October 22, 2016

Captain Wadsworth taught me at Addlestone Hebrew Academy. He had a true passion for science and was always excited about teaching it to his students. He was a kind and gentle man and will always be fondly remembered. My condolences to his entire family.

Lynda Taylor

October 22, 2016

Captain Ben became a wonderful member of our family when my daughter, Donna, married Ben's son, Andrew. We were fortunate in sharing and relating to his memories of Rock Mills, Alabama. Our families unknowingly grew up just a few miles apart in that little town with a population of approximately 1000. Every Holiday we shared with Captain Ben was made so special for us because his incomparable Blessings before dinner were so powerful and filled with the genuine Spirit of thankfulness which touched all of our hearts. We wish we could have known you for much longer. You will be sorely missed.

October 21, 2016

What a fine gentleman. He taught me at Addlestone and sparked my love of science. Your family is in our prayers.

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