John Benjamin Hart, Sr.

John Benjamin Hart, Sr., affectionately known as “Big Ben,” passed away peacefully on May 9, 2026, at the age of 82.

Born on April 5, 1944, John lived a life marked by service, dedication, talent, and unwavering devotion to his family. He proudly served his country in the United States Army, stationed in Korea as an Artillery Radio Technician until February 1967. His expertise and commitment distinguished him as the only qualified soldier in his battalion for his specialty. During his military service, he was awarded the Good Conduct Medal, National Defense Service Medal, and Expert M-14 Rifleman Badge in recognition of his exemplary service.

Following his honorable discharge, John began his career with Xerox Corporation, where he worked from 1967 until his retirement in 1985 as a Senior Customer Service Representative. While building his professional career, he also pursued his lifelong passion for music and entertainment. A gifted musician and talented magician, John brought joy and laughter to audiences throughout Florida’s Treasure Coast.

He was one-half of the beloved musical duo Two of a Kind, performing popular music at numerous venues, senior communities, and institutions throughout the region. Whether through music, magic, or his warm personality, John had a unique gift for making people smile.

Above all else, John cherished his family. He was a devoted husband, loving father, proud grandfather, and adoring great-grandfather whose kindness, wisdom, and sense of humor enriched the lives of all who knew him.

John is survived by his beloved wife of 38 years, Lillian Hart; his children, Sharon Elliott (James), John Benjamin Hart Jr. (Kendra), and Shelley Hart Spivey (Jay); and his stepchildren, Tom Paccione, Deana Solomon, and Jennifer Paccione.

He was a cherished grandfather to Jay Griffin (Courtnie), Abbey Griffin (Brandon Luke), Alex James, Taylor Diaz Rivera (Jay), Rachel Harrison, and Sophia, and a proud great-grandfather to Blaklee, Suttyn, Braxton, Brodie, and Lilah.

John’s legacy of service, music, laughter, love, and family devotion will continue to live on through the many lives he touched. He will be deeply missed and forever remembered.

Interment with Army honors, honoring John’s faithful service to his country will be held on Monday, June 29, 2026, at 1:00 p.m. at Cape Canaveral National Cemetery, 5525 U.S. Highway 1, Mims, Florida 32754.

Family and friends are invited to join in celebrating the life of a remarkable man whose generosity, talent, and love left an enduring mark on everyone fortunate enough to know him.

“His song may have ended, but the memories and melodies he shared will live on forever.”

Arrangements are by Thomas S. Lowther Funeral Home & Crematory, Vero Beach.