At 16 years of age, Benjamin Bernard Bynum had a life full of achievements in music, sports, community service, church and leadership. He was also a compassionate giver who always thought of others. At school he had been student of the year, receiving recognition for his excellence in writing, extracurricular activities and community service. He was chosen to participate in a prestigious program, Presidential Leadership: In the Footsteps of Presidents Obama and Lincoln, in August 2009. Tragically, in April of that year a car accident ended his life. His parents were proud to honor his desire to be a donor.

Benjamin's Story

Benjamin Bernard Bynum's life was rich and full with many achievements. As a young man he attended Pine Ridge and Wynbrooke Theme Elementary schools. He moved on to Stephenson Middle School and was later accepted into Champion Theme School where he became student of the year and a member of the honor roll. Benjamin began his musical career at Stephenson Middle School where the band achieved superior ratings every year. His musical talents continued with the Stephenson High School Band.

Benjamin possessed an extraordinary passion for athletics. Beginning with T-ball, he honed his skills through various athletic experiences, including the South Gwinnett Comets (God Squad) AAU Travel Team. Ultimately he played for JV and Varsity for the Stephenson High School Jaguars baseball team.

Extracurricular activities and community service were very important to Benjamin. He was a member of the National Beta Club from fifth grade through high school. He received letters of recognition for his excellence in writing both essays and poetry.

Benjamin was also a member of Green Pastures Christian Ministries, where he participated in Youth Beyond the Veil (YBTV), a program that prepares youth to become church leaders in their communities. He also worked with the sound ministry, a Deacon in Training, and participated in many other church activities.

In recognition of his academic achievement, involvement in extracurricular activities and leadership potential, Benjamin was chosen to participate in the People to People International Leadership Program, where he became an honored graduate. He was even invited to participate in a prestigious program, Presidential Leadership: In the Footsteps of Presidents Obama and Lincoln, in August 2009. Tragically, in April of that year a car accident ended his life.

Benjamin was a compassionate giver and was always thinking of others. At the time he notified his family that he wanted to register as a donor when he got his license, they thought it was an admirable decision for his age.

"Little did we know that his time would come so soon," said his mother Linda. "What a gift of healing he provided for us in his thoughtfulness. Yes, he was truly an extraordinary young man and he is dearly missed but, because he became a donor, his legacy continues on."