He is survived by his wife of 42 years, Caron Chastain Blann of Hampton, a son Tim (Marsha) Blann of Conway, step-son Lance (Donna) Chastain of Magnolia, step-daughter Shirey (Roy) Roberson of Magnolia, a brother Bill (Freddie) Blann of Hampton, 5 grandsons and 1 granddaughter, 4 great grandsons and 3 great granddaughters, special first cousins, nieces and nephews.

Ben had a love of music which began as a young boy taking piano lessons and later playing the tenor saxophone in the band. His favorite music was gospel and bluegrass. He enjoyed many years of playing piano for his church. He loved the Lord and served Him faithfully over his lifetime.

Ben started his work life as a diesel mechanic. After several years he sold and installed machines to kill flies in horse barns all over Arkansas and later became a bail bondsman. He enjoyed flying and earned his pilot license in his thirties. He loved appaloosa horses and spent many years breeding, training, showing and riding throughout several states.

His favorite thing was making friends. He enjoyed people and never met a stranger. He was a teller of tales and loved to make people laugh. He left the world a better place and he will surely be missed.

Services will be Tuesday at Campground Church of Hampton, AR. Officiating will be Bro. Rickey Smith and Bro. Garland Skidmore. A visitation will be at 1pm with services beginning at 2pm. Pallbearers are Larry Chastain, Brett Chastain, Trey Roberson, Brady Roberson, Harrison Blann and Russ Hopper. In lieu of flowers memorials may be made to the Salvation Army.

Arrangements are by Benton Funeral home of Fordyce/Hampton. To sign the online register visit www.bentonfuneralhome. net.