Jan. 4, 1927 –

Jan. 12, 2008



Benjamin Ruben Boykin, 81, of Live Oak Florida, passed away Jan. 12, 2008. God in his infinite wisdom called Deacon Boykin home to rest. He was the son of the late Rev. John and Alberta J. Boykin. Mr. Boykin was born Jan. 4, 1927 in Columbia County, Florida. He received in his education in the public schools of Columbia County, and was a “Master Farmer” in Suwannee County. Daddy, whom we referred to as “Diddy,” was a father to many. He devoted his life as a servant to others. Mr. Boykin was a very proud father of his children.

He leaves to cherish his love and fond memories 13 children, Willie C. Wiggins (Deborah) of Orlando, Florida, Alfonzo Wiggins of Lake Wales, Florida, pastor Ernestine W. Sweeting (Bishop Rufus) of Tallahassee, Florida, Mary L. Luck (Gennie) of O’Brien, Florida, Leon J. Boykin (Linda) of Orlando, Florida, Alberta J. Jones, Evelyn B. Sellars and Betty B. Hudson, all of Tallahassee, Florida, Emma M. Shedrick (Claude) of New Smyrna Beach, Florida, Glory B. Brown (John) of Tallahassee, Florida, Benjamin Boykin Jr. (Cherrie) of Orlando, Florida, Janice B. Johnson (Jeffery) of Miami, Florida and Elizabeth B. Robinson of Tallahassee, Florida; a sister, Annie B. Powell of Lake City, Florida; a brother, Earnest Boykin of Jacksonville, Florida; a sister-in-law, Stella M. Boykin of Jacksonville, Florida; 49 grandchildren; 89 great-grandchildren; a devoted nephew and niece, Ulysses “Billy” and Gussie Thomas of Wellborn, Florida; devoted friends and companions, Maggie M. Dortch and Ollie B. Thomas, all of O’Brien, Florida; nine god-children; a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, other relatives; and many sorrowing friends.

Funeral services will be conducted at 11 a.m., Saturday, Jan. 19 at Living Springs Family Worship Center, 26471 SR 247 East, Branford, Florida. Interment will follow at Cedar Grove Cemetery. Visitation will be held from 6-8 p.m., today, Friday, Jan. 18 at Thomas Funeral Home Chapel, 1009 Fifth Street, Live Oak, Florida.

Thomas Funeral Home of Live Oak, Florida is in charge of all arrangements.



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