Jarrel Earl Benjamin Sr

Jarrel Earl Benjamin Sr. passed away unexpectedly on April 17, 2026, at the age of 71 while working in Santa Rosa, California. He was born in San Francisco, California, on July 6, 1954, to Doris Benjamin and James Benjamin. Jarrel was raised in San Francisco, where he spent his early career as a driver for the San Francisco Municipal Transit District (MUNI). In 1975, he married Velda Rainey, and together they had three sons: Jarrel Jr., Marcus, and Lydell. In 1999, Jarrel moved to Sacramento to begin a long and dedicated career with 24 Hour Fitness, where he remained until his passing. As a Lead Service Technician, he traveled from club to club, training and mentoring other technicians. He was deeply respected and admired by his colleagues for his expertise and work ethic. It was during his time with the company that he transferred to the Vallejo club, where he met Melissa Husted. The two were married in 2017. A true classic car buff, Jarrel owned many different vehicles over the years. He was also a music aficionado who enjoyed listening—and quietly singing along—to all genres. In his downtime, he loved watching classic television series like Gunsmoke and The Twilight Zone, often reciting episodes word for word. He was a devoted Golden State Warriors fan, with Steph Curry being among his favorite players. Jarrel was known by all as a kind and generous man. He shared his knowledge without hesitation and consistently went out of his way to help anyone in need. Jarrel is survived by his wife, Melissa Ann Benjamin; his siblings, Mickel, Clorica, Carl, Melvin, Steven, Aaron and Gwendolyn; his children, Jarrel Earl Benjamin Jr., Marcus Benjamin, and Lydell Benjamin Sr.; and a large, loving family of grandchildren, great-grandchildren, nieces, and nephews. He was preceded in death by his parents Doris and James Benjamin, Larry Edward, Kenny and Velda Rainey and Lydell Benjamin Jr. Services: A viewing will be held at Twin Chapels in Vallejo on May 8, 2026, from 9:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. with a funeral service to follow at 1:00 p.m. A repass will be held from 3:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. at Dance Unlimited, 510 Georgia Street, Vallejo. Arrangements entrusted to the direction and care of Twin Chapels Mortuary, Vallejo (707) 552-6696. www.TwinChapelsMortuary.com

Jarrel Earl Benjamin Sr

July 6, 1954 - April 17, 2026