Dr. Benjamin R. Wygal

Dr. Benjamin R. Wygal, age 88, passed away peacefully, surrounded by the family he loved and supported unceasingly.

Born in Childress, Texas, Ben's life was a remarkable journey of faith, education, leadership, and service. He began his schooling in a one-room schoolhouse in West Texas and, through dedication and perseverance, rose to become a college president by the age of 32-a testament to his intellect, vision, and commitment to learning.

Ben served for 16 years as President of Florida Junior College at Jacksonville, where his steady leadership and passion for education left a lasting impact. He continued his career in executive and community leadership roles, including serving as President of Life Care Centers of America and later with Adventist HealthCare in Maryland as Vice President of Health and Wellness.

Ben's favorite role, however, came later in life. For the past 23 years, he served as Assistant to the President at Southern Adventist University, where he joyfully promoted the university throughout the greater Chattanooga community. Ben deeply loved Southern Adventist University and found great fulfillment in mentoring, encouraging, and supporting faculty, staff, and especially students. His wisdom, kindness, and genuine interest in others made him a cherished presence on campus.

Ben shared 69 years of marriage with his beloved wife, Reika, building a life grounded in love, partnership, and unwavering support. He was a devoted father to his daughters, Kimberly (Harry) Miller and Kelly (Christine Stephan) Wygal, and a proud grandfather to Ashley (Andrew) Deitering, Cicely Miller, and Emily (Jay) Newman.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Loyd and Pernecia Wygal, and his brother, Jimmy Wygal.

Those who knew Ben will remember a man of integrity, humility, and quiet strength-someone who believed deeply in people and spent his life lifting others up. His legacy lives on through his family, the countless lives he influenced through education and leadership, and the many hearts he touched along the way.

A memorial service will be held Sunday, March 1, 2026, at 3:30 pm at the Collegedale Seventh-day Adventist Church, 4829 College Dr. E, Collegedale, TN.

You are encouraged to share a memory of Ben and/or your personal condolences with his family by visiting his memorial webpage and guestbook at www.companionfunerals.com. Companion Funeral Home is honored to assist the family with these arrangements.