Obituary

َ إِﻧﱠﺎ ِ ٰﻟﻠہﱠ ِ وَإِﻧﱠﺎ إِﻟَﯿْﮫ ِ رَ اﺟِ ﻌُﻮن

Inna Lillahi wa inna ilayhi raji'un

(Indeed, to Allah we belong and to Him we shall return)

Surah 2:156

Jerome Leon Benford, lovingly known by many as "Shine," departed this life on November 29, 2024, at the age of 74. A man of extraordinary talent and unwavering faith, Jerome touched the lives of all who had the privilege to know him.

Born on July 17, 1950, to Salome Leonard Whitley-Benford and Tom Vernon Benford, Jerome was raised in a nurturing home that encouraged both creativity and discipline. He attended Ruth Grimes Elementary School, Carter G. Woodson Middle School, and Evan Edward Worthing Senior High School, laying the foundation for a life of accomplishment and passion.

Jerome proudly served his country in the U.S. Army from January 1970 to January 1974, embodying courage and dedication during his military tenure.

A man of faith, Jerome embraced both the Christian and Islamic traditions, drawing strength and inspiration from his spirituality throughout his journey.

Jerome was a gifted and self-taught musician with a deep love for studying musical arts.  He was able to play various instruments.  He was a skilled composer who created numerous musical compilations which  expressed his own creative spirit.  Jerome also loved photography.  Jerome's music and photography were a reflection of his soul and his passion for life.

On September 13, 1975, Jerome and Diana Pickett welcomed their beloved daughter, Sherwonda Lanell Pickett, into the world. She remained his pride and joy throughout his life. Jerome was also a devoted grandfather to Jacqualon DeSean McFarland and Keiera Star Jones, whose laughter and love brought him immense happiness.

Jerome was preceded in death by his parents, Salome and Tom Benford; and his brothers, Lloyd Benford and Donald Benford. He leaves behind to celebrate his memory his siblings, Larry Dean Benford, Cornelius Leo Benford, and Ola Joyce Benford-Harris; his daughter, Sherwonda Lanell Pickett; his grandchildren, Jacqualon and Keiera; and a host of nieces, nephews, and dear loved ones.

Jerome's life was a testament to resilience, faith, and love. His memory will be forever etched in the hearts of those who were fortunate to know h