Ohio NAACP Mourns the Passing of Former State Senate Minority Leader Ben Espy, a Champion for Justice, Equality, and Community Leadership
January 5, 2025
Columbus, OH — The Ohio State Conference of the NAACP joins the Columbus community, the state of Ohio, and the nation in mourning the passing of former State Senate Minority Leader, Columbus City Council member, and Ohio State University alumnus, Leader Ben Espy. Espy, who passed away at the age of 81, He leaves an indelible legacy of unwavering service, visionary advocacy, and transformative leadership, etching his contributions into the fabric of history and inspiring generations yet to come.
“Ben Espy was a trailblazer, a courageous advocate, and a relentless fighter for justice,” said Tom Roberts, President of the Ohio NAACP. “He exemplified the very best of public service with his dignity, integrity, and steadfast dedication to improving the lives of others. He was a class act in every sense of the term—someone who led with grace, wisdom, and an unwavering commitment to justice. He dedicated his life to advancing civil rights, addressing systemic inequities, and creating opportunities for all Ohioans. His legacy is a testament to the power of resilience and the impact of dedicated public service.”
Espy’s remarkable career spanned decades, beginning with his graduation from The Ohio State University in 1965 with a degree in political science, followed by earning a law degree from Howard University in 1968. He served as a corporate lawyer and assistant staff judge advocate in the U.S. Air Force before returning to Ohio in 1972 to become deputy chief of the Civil Rights Division of the Ohio Attorney General’s Office.
Espy later founded his own law practice in 1977 and began his political career in 1982, serving as president pro tempore of the Columbus City Council for a decade. Despite a life-altering accident in 1984, where he lost his lower right leg after being struck by a falling cornice, Espy’s resilience and dedication to public service never wavered. His leadership continued in the Ohio State Senate, where he served as Minority Leader from 1996 to 2000.Beyond his legislative accomplishments, Espy was deeply committed to his community. He founded the Columbus Youth Corps, which became the precursor to the city’s APPS summer jobs program, and was instrumental in establishing Columbus’ annual Martin Luther King Jr. celebration. His dedication to empowering youth, fostering civic engagement, and celebrating diversity set a standard for generations to come. “Ben Espy’s life reminds us of what is possible when we dedicate ourselves to serving others and standing up for justice,” Roberts added. “His courage, resilience, and ability to turn challenges into opportunities are an inspiration to all of us. The Ohio NAACP is deeply grateful for his contributions and steadfast leadership.”
Columbus City Council President Shannon Hardin called Espy “a towering statesman and a fighter for justice and equality,” highlighting his time as a football player under legendary coach Woody Hayes at The Ohio State University, as well as his transformative work for the community.
Ben Espy’s remarkable achievements earned him numerous awards, accolades, and the respect of his peers. He was a trusted advisor, a mentor, and a friend to many who followed in his footsteps. His life of service reflects the very essence of leadership and commitment to justice. As we remember Ben Espy, the Ohio NAACP extends our deepest condolences to his family, friends, and all who were touched by his incredible life. We honor his enduring legacy and commit to carrying forward his vision of a more equitable and inclusive Ohio.
About the Ohio NAACP: The Ohio State Conference of the NAACP is the state’s leading civil rights organization, dedicated to eliminating racial discrimination and ensuring the political, educational, social, and economic equality of rights for all persons.
Ohio NAACP Mourns the Passing of Former State Senate Minority Leader Ben Espy, a Champion for Justice, Equality, and Community Leadership