Ohio state Sen. Ben Espy, who died at 81, to be remembered at service for breaking barriers

Ben Espy, a respected attorney and former Ohio state senator, will be honored at a celebration of life on Monday, reflecting on his legacy of public service and community impact. Espy, who passed away on January 4 at the age of 81 following a brief illness, made significant strides in breaking racial barriers in Columbus, Ohio, notably serving as the first Black president pro tem of the city council and as the minority leader of the Ohio Senate.

Throughout his career, Espy remained a dedicated public servant despite facing challenges in his political ambitions. He was appointed as Ohio Attorney General Marc Dann's top lieutenant in 2007 and later led a critical internal investigation into allegations about the office, which was recognized for its thoroughness and integrity. This commitment to fairness and integrity was a hallmark of Espy's career, reinforcing the respect he garnered across party lines.

Espy's most lasting contributions were deeply rooted in the Columbus community. He was instrumental in establishing the city's Martin Luther King Jr. Day celebration, now one of the largest in the country, and founded the Columbus Youth Corps to instill ethics and professionalism in young people. Additionally, he created "The Job Show," a municipal cable program that garnered national recognition for effectively helping residents find employment.

Born in Nashville and raised in Ohio, Espy excelled both academically and athletically, eventually earning a law degree from Howard University. His career took him from corporate law to public service, where he dedicated himself to the betterment of his community, balancing his professional responsibilities with a devoted family life.

Espy's resilience extended beyond his professional endeavors; after a serious accident left him with a severe injury, he demonstrated remarkable determination, continuing to influence the community. His legacy is a testament to his role as a trailblazer and advocate for justice and equality, a sentiment echoed by community leaders who celebrated his contributions and commitment to making a meaningful impact.