Benjamin Maurice Waters

Benjamin Maurice Waters was born on March 13, 1951, in Columbus, Ohio, the son of Harry Amos Waters, Sr. and Bertha Meadows Waters. He was also the twin of Brenda Marie Waters. He attended schools established in the 1950’s by the Franklin County Board of Developmental Disabilities where he also participated in sporting events such as basketball. Because he was a good athlete, he was an early participant in the Special Olympics created in the late 1960’s. He was a gold medalist in the 50-yard dash at the Ohio State Championships and a bronze medalist in the 50-yard dash in the State Regional Championship in 1969. His first employment was with Arc Industries. Initially, he worked at one of their sheltered workshops but later, through Arc Industries, he was able to do janitorial work in private sector jobs. While with the Arc, he was a member of their state-championship basketball teams in 1973 and 1974. He was also chosen as best bowler in 1973 on their bowling team. On April 15, 1998, he began living at the James Road Group and participating in the Sage Senior Services through Goodwill Industries. He was a very friendly, outgoing, and independent person who enjoyed talking to people and exploring Columbus. One thing he was especially known for was being an Ohio State Football super fan. He had the opportunity to attend two football games. On February 9, 2019, Benjamin transitioned, was preceded in death by his parents and his twin sister Brenda. He is survived by his sisters, Angela Waters Wheeler, Constance Waters Hook (Bobby), and Gwendolyn Waters; his brother, Harry Amos Waters, Jr. (Sheila); and many nieces, nephews, and cousins. He will be greatly missed by all who knew him.