OBITUARY Benjamin R. Iliff February 13, 1990 – January 11, 2019 Gales Ferry – Our beloved Benjamin Robert Iliff, 28, made his unexpected transition on Friday, January 11, 2019, after a long and courageous journey through the challenges associated with substance use disorder and the disease of addiction. We are grateful for every moment of Ben’s life and for the many ways he helped us learn about the disease, but also about acceptance, unconditional love, patience, compassion, gratitude and understanding. Ben was born on February 13, 1990, in New London, and graduated from Ledyard High School.
It is impossible to capture a person in an obituary. Ben was funny, kind, polite, helpful, eager, intelligent, interesting, creative, artistic, articulate, silly and lots of fun. He was a gifted artist – music, drawing and painting were his passions.
He was a gift to all of us and was adored as a son, grandson, father, brother, nephew, cousin and friend. After the birth of his son Kaleb, Ben tried hard to discover himself and his spiritual connection to the pure positive energy that could help him take control of his life and begin to create a brighter future for himself and his family. Until he drew his last breath, we believed that he would overcome his disease and make the life for himself that we knew he deserved.
Ben is no longer limited by his physical form, and it is clear that we are more connected to him now than ever before. We take comfort in knowing that Ben is surrounded by infinite light and love, free from the obstacles he often encountered along his journey here. Ben is survived by his son Kaleb Maddox Iliff and his son’s mother Kaleigh Mitchell, his father Robert Iliff and step-mother Deborah Iliff, his mother Ceci Iliff and her partner Pat Frankopoulos, his brother Daniel, sister Sarah, his maternal grandfather Daniel Monaco and his paternal grandmother Lillian Iliff.
He was predeceased by his paternal grandfather Robert S. Iliff, Sr. and his maternal grandmother Louise Monaco. He is also survived by many aunts, uncles, cousins and friends who will miss him dearly. We appreciate beyond measure the outpouring of support and love.
In response to the often-asked question, “Is there anything we can do? ” or “Is there anything you need? ” we respectfully request that in lieu of flowers, a donation be made to TheCharityChallenge.net, PO Box 594, Gales Ferry, CT 06335.
The funds will be divided between Ben’s son Kaleb and TriCircle, Inc., a local non-profit organization dedicated to creating real, long-term solutions for individuals and families who are affected by substance use disorder and the disease of addiction. Please join us for calling hours on Friday, January 18, from 5 pm to 8 pm and for a “Ben Style” celebration of his life on Saturday, January 19, at 11:00 am – both held at St. David’s Episcopal Church in Gales Ferry.
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