Reynold Benjamin

Reynold Randolph Roberts Benjamin, lovingly known as “Tee” to some and “Ben” to others, entered eternal rest on Thursday, January 8, 2026. Born on December 30, 1946, in his family’s home in San Juan, Trinidad and Tobago, Reynold was the beloved son of the late R. Roberts and Theresa Benjamin. He was raised alongside several siblings under the devoted care and guidance of his paternal grandmother, Roberta Roberts, whose influence helped shape his early years. Tee attended both primary and secondary school in Port of Spain, Trinidad, where his curiosity and adventurous spirit began to take root. As a young man, he embraced hard work through a variety of jobs and developed a love for travel, often sharing vivid stories of his seafaring journeys and memorable adventures on his way to the United Kingdom. 

Tee’s adventurous spirit eventually led him to the United States, where he continued building a life defined by courage and service. On February 22, 1972, during the final years of the Vietnam War, he enlisted in the United States Army. Beginning his military career as a Private First Class and serving as a cook, he quickly distinguished himself through dedication and discipline, rising to the rank of Specialist Four (E-4). While stationed in Vietnam, Ben was part of a special unit. Although he rarely spoke in detail about his experiences, he often shared that he took great pride in driving and providing security for high-ranking generals and notable figures. He spoke fondly of his military years, recalling the diverse people he met and the lasting memories he created while stationed in Florida, California, and overseas. Following his return to the United States, Tee was stationed in California, where he achieved another proud milestone- becoming a citizen of the United States. After four years of honorable service to his adopted country, he was honorably discharged on April 1, 1976. 

After completing his military service, Tee’s entrepreneurial spirit led him to permanently settle in New York City, where his vision and determination allowed him to build several successful ventures. Over the years, he proudly owned and operated a nightclub, an ice cream shop, a record store, and a neighborhood corner store, businesses that reflected both his work ethic and his love for people and community. During this chapter of his life, he met the love of his life, Ina Victoria Brown. The two were united in marriage on August 5, 1980, in a private ceremony that marked the beginning of a devoted and enduring partnership. Their union was blessed with three beloved children: Kisha Brown-Gordon, Diane Benjamin-Quail, and Gisselle Brown. 

Tee was often regarded as the life of the party, known for his sharp wit, infectious humor, and uncanny ability to make people laugh wherever he went. In his later years, he embraced life with enthusiasm and purpose, enjoying a wide range of activities that reflected both his energy and his love for community, but nothing brought him more joy than loving, adoring, and spending quality time with his cherished grandchildren. He volunteered with Habitat for Humanity, enjoyed watching classic Westerns, and could often be found listening to the lively rhythms of Soca and Calypso music that connected him to his Trinidadian roots. He also took pride in staying active, regularly going to the gym and participating in Dragon Boat racing, a sport deeply rooted in the culture and traditions of his beloved Trinidad. 

He leaves to cherish his memory his beloved wife, Ina Benjamin; his devoted daughters, Kisha Brown-Gordon, Diane Benjamin-Quail, and Gisselle Brown; and his cherished sons-in-love, Winston Gordon and Ahmad Quail Jr. He was a proud and loving grandfather to Deja Gordon-Munoz, Simone Munoz, Nashawn Taylor, Teresa Brown, Dontrell Whetsell, Matthew Brown, Aerin Quail, and Micheal Brown. He also leaves behind a host of loving nieces, nephews, cousins, extended family members, and dear friends who will forever hold his memory close. Tee’s legacy of love, strength, laughter, and kindness will live on in the hearts of all who knew and loved him. His spirit will remain forever etched in our hearts.