Benjamin Tyrone Jakes

Benjamin Tyrone Jakes, lovingly known as "Benji," was born on July 2, 1973, to the late Benjamin Jakes Jr. and Katherine Breland Jakes. He entered into eternal rest on Wednesday, July 8, 2026.

Benji attended Walterboro High School, where he was a proud member of the Class of 1992. During his school years, he enjoyed singing in the honor chorus and playing basketball, forming lifelong friendships and memories. He would tell you ‘I’M A BULLDOG.” 

Benji began his working career at Winn-Dixie before joining Walmart (Store Manager), where he faithfully dedicated 33 years of service until his retirement in 2026. While employed at Walmart, he also served as an Assistant Manager at Dollar General for three years, demonstrating his strong work ethic, leadership, and commitment to serving others. 

At an early age, Benji accepted Christ and became a member of Sand Hill Baptist Church, where he faithfully participated in the church and youth choirs. His love for music and worship remained an important part of who he was. 

Benji found joy in life's simple pleasures. He was a devoted Miami Dolphins fan who never missed an opportunity to cheer on his team. He was well known for his incredible grilling skills—family and friends would agree that no one could work a grill quite like Benji. When he wasn't grilling or watching football, you could almost certainly find him fishing, one of his greatest passions. He also had a special appreciation for red trucks, which reflected his vibrant personality. Music held a special place in Benji's heart. He was an avid admirer of Rance Allen, and his favorite song, "There's Something About the Name of Jesus," was one that brought him comfort and inspiration throughout his life. Benji shared an extraordinary bond with his faithful companion, Sandy. More than a pet, Sandy was family. They were inseparable, sharing everyday adventures and even traveling together on vacations. Their companionship was a true reflection of Benji's loving and loyal spirit. 

Benji is preceded in death by his father, Benjamin Jakes Jr.; his maternal grandparents, Harvell and Viola Breland; and his paternal grandparents, Benjamin Jakes Sr. and Eloise Jakes Lee. 

 Benji leaves to cherish his precious memories his loving mother, Katherine Breland Jakes; his devoted fiancée, Shanielle Mahatha; his beloved daughter, Shameeka Jakes Peurifoy ("Unique”) and little Miss Zuri like a grandchild, all of Philadelphia, Pennsylvania; and his bonus children, Romel, Jackson, Akela, De’Aja, Tae, TaNiya, Anthony; 2 God children, Danzell and Jakari, who held a special place in his heart; his siblings: Cathy Williamson Jakes of Walterboro, South Carolina, Derrick T. Jakes (Wanda) of Staten Island, New York, and Chere Jakes McNeal (Demetrius) of Redford, North Carolina; his cherished best friends, Johnny Evans, Eric Stephens, Estis Mincey and Steven Donaldson both of Charleston, South Carolina; a host of nieces, nephews, great- nieces, great-nephews, that he would bend backwards for, -even buy out the whole ice cream truck so every child on Sandhill could get ice cream; his aunts, uncles, cousins, extended family members, and countless friends whose lives were forever touched by his kindness, laughter, generosity, and love. 

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