Michael Leon Benjamin was born on March 21, 1959, to the late Mack and Mattie Benjamin in Philadelphia. Michael, affectionately known as "Chuck" attended Claghorn Elementary School until 1967, when he became one of the first students chosen to desegregate Philadelphia schools. He attended Fels Elementary School and Northeast High School, but after suffering an eye injury during a busing riot, he transferred to Dobbins Technical High School, where he graduated.

An exceptional athlete, Michael excelled in baseball, football, and basketball—his favorite sport. He played for Fels, Northeast, and Dobbins, as well as the prestigious Sonny Hill and Summer Baker League. Raised in the church, he was active in the Junior Deacons, the Usher Board, and the choir.

In 1983, Michael married the love of his life and joined the United States Army. A diehard Eagles fan, he eventually settled in Indianapolis, where he worked for the Defense Finance and Accounting Service (DFAS), dedicating over 45 years of service to the government.

He was preceded in death by his sisters, Daisy Mae Porter and Fannie Lou Gibson (George), and his son, Gregory H. Benjamin.

He is survived by his wife, Vida Benjamin; his children, Jamar Johnson (Tiffany), Rosa Houston (Marcus), Michael Mial (Janalee), and Randall Benjamin (Jessica); his grandchildren, Michala, Ron’Tel, Maleek, Gregory Jr., Zion, Tyree, Ty’Relle, Israel, Bella, and Brynlee; his great-grandchildren, Malachi, My’Vida, Nylah, and Naylani; his siblings, Harriet West (Amos), Betty Benjamin, Pamela Alexander, and Robert "Lemon" Benjamin (Robin); and a host of nephews, nieces, family, and friends.

 A visitation for Chuck will be held on Saturday, March 7, 2026 from 10:00 AM until 12:00 PM at Caring Place, 2901 N. Post Rd. Indianapolis, IN 46219. A funeral service will immediately follow at 12:00 PM.