William Benjamin Emerson

William Benjamin "Ben" Emerson, 50, of Cambridge, went to be with the Lord at 3 p.m. Tuesday, Aug. 4, 2009, at Johns Hopkins Medical Center in Baltimore after a long illness. He was surrounded by family, who read psalms, and sang hymns and spiritual songs in keeping with Ephesians 5:19.

Ben was the son Carole Wright (nee Pritchett), and beloved by his stepfather, Thomas H. Wright Jr. of Cambridge. His father was the late Richard T. Emerson. He was brother to Matt Emerson of Oliver Springs, Tenn., Toby Emerson and wife Janet of Hurlock, Bob Emerson and wife Chris of Salem, Va., Tracey Harmon and husband Jeff of Baltimore, Jeff Lunt and wife Carrie of Relay, and Kate Dentel and husband Dave of Stephens City, Va. He also leaves behind a good friend, Dawn Windsor, and many nephews and nieces.

He was the father of Robert Weldon "Bobby" Emerson and wife Brandy, and grandfather of Richard William "Ricky" Emerson, and of soon-to-arrive Gracie Lynn Emerson.

Known especially for his sense of humor and forgiving spirit, Ben was by nature a great encourager. He served as a greeter at Bay Country Church in Cambridge, drawing in many people through its doors. A loyal friend to the lonely and needy, he started a Saturday morning breakfast at his church for disenfranchised men.

For several years he operated his own business, Blackwater Pest Services, from his home in Griffith's Neck. He worked in the pest control business for more than 20 years.

Ben loved John Wayne films, exploring the country with his dog Rocky, reading and collecting old books, and delving into family history.

Ben was born Oct. 12, 1958, in Baltimore, and attended schools in Cambridge.

A celebration of his life will be held 2 p.m., Sunday, Aug. 9, at Open Bible Church in Cambridge with the Rev. Doug Wooten officiating. Pallbearers will be Keyworth "Buddy" Birch, Jay Meredith, Donnie Wooten, Dennis Wooten, Steve Bloodsworth, and Ricky Parks. Visitation with the family will be 1:30 to 2 p.m. at the church. Burial will be at East New Market Cemetery, followed by food and fellowship at Cambridge Wesleyan Church's Family Life Center. Thomas Funeral Home of Cambridge is handling the arrangements. In lieu of flowers, m emorial contributions may be made in Mr. Emerson's name to the Thomas Funeral Home, P.A., 700 Locust Street, Cambridge, MD 21613 to defray funeral expenses.