James Benjamin -Ben- Chamberlin

James Benjamin Chamberlin came into the world September 13th, 1992 in San Antonio, Texas. His parents, Thomas and Betsey, called him their 'bonus baby", and he made their family complete.

Ben's individualism and determination revealed itself quickly. He would not walk until he could do it unaided, and he waited to talk until he had full sentences mastered. He had a brilliant mind with a personal affinity for history and would pick his battles before he pointed out the fact that he could play the bagpipes with ease. Regardless of the creature, the affection he gave to animals could not go unnoticed.

Ben's story is best told through the way he spent his last day–long, philosophical talks with his few trusted friends, all striving for quiet excellence, to his absolute care he gave to the animals at Petco and driving crosstown to care for his mother's and his brother's pets when they couldn't. All while holding himself to an exhaustingly high standard. A standard that left him avoiding recognition for keeping us all smiling, so that after he was gone we could all find the strength to.

Ben leaves behind his parents Thomas and Betsey; siblings Catherine (John) McMahon and T.J. (Tiana Blades) Chamberlin; grandmother Kathryn Harris, grandfather James Harris, and many aunts, uncles, cousins and friends. He was preceded in death by his grandparents Louis and Marie Chamberlin.

A memorial gathering will be held on Wednesday, January 27 from 4 to 8 PM at Flanner and Buchanan – Washington Park East, 10722 E. Washington St, Indianapolis. A Celebration of Ben’s life will be held Thursday, January 28 at 11 AM at Flanner and Buchanan.

Memorial contributions in Ben's honor may be made to the Animal Defense League, 11300 Nacogdoches Road, San Antonio, TX, 78217