Ben Eberhart Josey

Ben Eberhart Josey, of Niceville, FL entered into rest on Monday the 6th of March at Destin-Fort Walton Beach Hospital after a long battle with leukemia. He was 78. Ben received excellent care at the 4th-floor cancer unit there. He was surrounded by his loving family at the time of his passing. He is survived by his beloved wife of 39 years, Debbie, his daughters Heather and Stephanie (Jonathan), 5 adoring grandchildren, and many extended family and friends. 

Born in Milledgeville, GA, Ben grew up attending First Presbyterian Church and was educated at Georgia Military College. He graduated in 1967 from Clemson University and begin his career as a USAF pilot. Ben served in Vietnam and Desert Shield as well as Special Operations missions all over the world. When he retired from the USAF in England, Ben and Debbie returned to Fort Walton Beach/Niceville where they were members of Rocky Bayou Country Club and First Presbyterian Church of Niceville. Ben also loved the time he spent serving with the Good News prison ministry. 

A memorial service will be at First Presbyterian Church of Niceville on Friday, March 10, 2023, at 2:00 pm. Following the service, the family will receive visitors and friends on Friday evening, 5:00 pm – 8:00 pm at McLaughlin Mortuary, 17 Chestnut Avenue SE, in Fort Walton Beach.  Interment in Milledgeville at a later date. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to one of Ben’s favorite charities in his honor: 

Special Operations Warrior Foundation

Feed the Children

Leukemia and Lymphoma Society

Clemson University