Benjamin Milner Jr.

Benjamin Milner Jr. was born December 3rd, 1952 in El Paso, Texas. He was the beloved son of Daisy and Elder Benjamin Milner Sr. who preceded him in death. He came from a musical family and at age 7 the late Aunt Jessie Bledsoe saw this gift in him and started teaching him to play piano and organ by ear. He attended Isleta high School and would rush home to play and listen to music he loved, never missing the opportunity to share His gift. He was a graduate of Isleta High School. If he heard a song, you can know that in his head he was working on a way to arrange it, which led him to play in many churches throughout El Paso.

In 1967 he joined Elder Willie James with Youth on the Move. Ben was the featured artist who recorded and traveled all over the US with this religious movement. Our nation was blessed to watch as he was invited to the White House in 1989 to perform for our 41st president, George W. Bush at his inauguration. Ben was the minister of music for Greater Mount Calvary, Mount Olive Baptist, Trowbridge Bridge Tabernacle, Community Baptist, and Friendship. He never said no when asked to play, and most of the time it was for free. He led many musical workshops which produced some of our outstanding talent and worked with The late Rev. James Cleveland Workshop and Rev. John Pee Key showcased through the years. If there was a new an upcoming song master or a shy songstress on the rise, Ben always would take time to show them how to blend a note or sound and make it special.

In 1973 he joined the US Army and served in Georgia and El Paso. He reenlisted and served another term in 1979. After leaving the service he went to work for Robles Inc. as an inspector and held numerous jobs through the years until he became ill and could no longer work. Even with his disability, his love for music never stopped. He continued to play until his hands could no longer hit the keys. He kept his piano next to his bed with a mic and phone close. There was always a song playing or humming coming from his voice. Even in his last days, he would listen and sing Beverly Crawford. Ben loved praising God in song. He leaves his sisters Joyce Watford and Martha Staton who preceded him in death, brothers Jerry Milner, and Donald Milner (Maryann). Dr. Helen Burton (William), Uncle David Milner (Aunt Mary Milner), and Uncle Eddie Milner (Companion Wanda Newman).

Visitation will be from 5:00 PM to 8:00 PM with a Prayer Service at 6:00 PM, Wednesday, March 25, 2026 at Sunset Funeral Homes - East, 750 N. Carolina Dr. Funeral Service will be held at 11:00 AM, Thursday, March 26, 2026 at Sunset Funeral Homes - East. Interment will follow at 1:30 PM at Fort Bliss National Cemetery, 5200 Fred Wilson.