Benjamin B. Barnwell, III, age 63, of Prince George County, Virginia, passed away peacefully on May 28, 2026 at his residence.  He was born on June 16, 1962, on Staten Island, New York. He was educated in Chesterfield County, Virginia, where he was a member of the first kindergarten class at Ettrick Elementary School and completed his secondary education at Matoaca Middle and High Schools. At the age of 10, Benjamin was baptized at Gillfield Baptist Church and later became a member of Tabernacle Baptist Church where he served with the Security Team Ministry.

Benjamin was a man of intellect and purpose. He was a proud graduate of Morehouse College, where he earned a Bachelor of Science in Biology.  He continued his academic journey at Cambridge College in Massachusetts where he earned a Master of Education.  His commitment to education reflected his discipline, curiosity, desire to grow, and qualities that shaped both his personal and professional life.  His love of teaching led him to a 24 year career in education, as a teacher in the Beaufort, South Carolina, Petersburg City, Chesterfield County, and Prince George County Public School Systems, impacting the lives of hundreds of students.  He took great pride in sharing his knowledge and valued deeply the relationships he built along the way. His impact extended far beyond the classroom, leaving a lasting imprint on all who had the privilege of learning from him.

Butch, as he was lovingly called, found peace and joy in the outdoors.  He loved hunting and deep-sea fishing.  Working with his hands came naturally, whether building, creating, or repairing.  He approached each task with patience, skill, and an appreciation for life's simple pleasures.  He also had a deep passion for music and played several instruments, with a special love for both upright bass and bass guitar.

Above all, his greatest joy was his family. The love he gave so freely will continue to live on in all who knew and loved him.

He was preceded in death by his father, Dr. Benjamin Barnwell, Jr. and mother-in-law, Dr. Thelma Bland Watson.

He leaves to cherish his memory, his devoted wife, Chrystal Bland Barnwell, his beloved mother, Jocelyn Maclin Barnwell, and his children, Benjamin B. Barnwell, IV, Anita Brianna Marie Barnwell, and Junius Isaiah Bland Barnwell.  He is also survived by his siblings, Dr. Velma Barnwell, Dr. Anne-Battiste Barnwell, and Dr. John Barnwell, Sr. (Karen), his nieces, Jocelyn-Margarette Grayson, Vera Ann-Marie Barnwell, and Anna-Rae Roberts; and nephews, Alan Glen Roberts, Jr., John Maclin Barnwell, Jr., and David Jeffery Grayson, Jr.  He also leaves a host of cousins, extended family members, and dear friends who will forever honor his memory.

The family gratefully acknowledges the caring support and services of Crater Community Hospice, Care Advantage Home Care, and Mrs. Patricia Hawkins.  Their compassion, kindness, and professionalism provided comfort and peace to Butch and his family during a most difficult time.

Butch will be remembered for the love he gave, the strength he embodied, and the lives he quietly uplifted. Though he is no longer with us in body, his spirit will remain.

A celebration of life will take place on Saturday, June 6, 2026, at 4 pm with the Reverend Dr. Robert A. Diggs, Sr. officiating, preceded by a time to receive family and friends at 3 pm at Tabernacle Baptist Church. The address is 418 Halifax Street, Petersburg, Virginia.  The interment will take place on Monday, June 8, 2026 at Blandford Cemetery, Petersburg, Virginia at 10am.

The family sincerely thanks everyone for their prayers, support, kindness, and the outpouring of love during this difficult time.  In honor of Butch, memorial donations may be made to The Men of Tabernacle Scholarship Fund of Tabernacle Baptist Church.