Death is not sad, but it is a time for elation and a joyous transition where the soul emigrates into a place where it is safe and free to live with God through eternity……

Benjamin Tye Jr. 85, passed away in the comfort of his home, surrounded by loved ones on January 8th, 2021. He was born in Gregory, Arkansas on November 11th, 1935.

Son of Benjamin Tye Sr. and Victoria Tye (Green).

Ben was a "Jack of All Trades", He was employed by Belle City soon after his arrival to Wisconsin. He was later employed by J.I. Case and American Motors as well.  He had a passion for cooking, carpentry, and being an entrepreneur- Ben self-taught himself to renovate homes along with owning several restaurants; A&B Barbeque, Rose Sandwich Shop, and even a store called "Ben Tye's" Candy Shop. Ben was a hardworking man and always made sure he provided for his family first. He spared no expense when it came to his family, always keeping them in the forefront. He was also a provider for those who needed him as well. But, of all the things that Ben was great at doing, his greatest joy was cooking and helping others. No matter who you were–whether you needed a delicious, soulful-home cooked meal, or somewhere to stay- Ben's place was certainly open for both. He enjoyed the fruits of his labor and shared openly with many throughout the community; Big Ben had a way with people.

He leaves to cherish in his memory; His 1 and only brother Percy Tye, of Milwaukee, Wi; 11 children; Maria Robinson, of Racine; Bridgette Tye, of Fresno, Tx; Brenda Tye of Homestead, Fl; Rita Tye, Jerome Tye, Sharon Tye, Melissa Branch, and Benjamin Tye (Melissa Story) all of Racine. Benjamin E. Kelley, of Oakland, Ca; Larry D. Kelley, (Shorlanda) of Crete, IL, Melvin J. Kelley (Faye), of Harvey, IL. His stepchildren; Donna Harris, Landry Breckenridge, Given Breckenridge. Special caregiver Larry Williams; God child; Ryan Riley, a special niece, Gwen Riley; and a host of many other special nieces and nephews, too many to mention. 41 grandchildren, 63 great-grandchildren, 2 great-great grandchildren, and a host of close friends. Benjamin was preceded in death by; His mother and father, maternal and paternal grandparents; Three wives; Janet, Rose Lee, and Betty. Three sisters: Mary Riley, Sarah Johnson, and Beatrice Evans; Children: Belinda Gettis, Faye Tye, and Wilton Tye. Grandchildren; Samantha Farris, Dana Earl, Ernest Cosey, and his nephews Reginald Tye and Dennis Mclaurin.

The family would like to extend their gratitude to Heartland Hospice, Ascension, Fresenius Dialysis Center as you all helped with caring for Ben.

85 YEARS LONG, 85 YEARS STRONG!

"GRANDDAD"

You're thought about so often

In loving memory,

For you were all the special things

A Grandad ought to be.

We've all missed you being here

Since you went away,

But the happiness you brought us

Is remembered every day.

So may you find a gentle peace

In your eternal rest,

We'll always love you, Grandad,

You really were the best

Funeral Services will be held on Saturday, January 16, 2021, in the Draeger-Langendorf Funeral Home at Four O' Clock in the Afternoon. There will be a visitation from 2:00 P.M. until the time of services at 4:00 P.M.

Service Details

SATURDAY, JANUARY 16, 2021

VISITATION: 2:00 – 4:00 p.m.

HOMEGOING SERVICE: 4:00 p.m.  (50 people allowed)

For those wishing to watch via livestream, please click on this link at 4:00 p.m. on Saturday https://youtu.be/gHcv1ifJDkE