Former State Senator Ben Espy, who passed away in January at the age of 81, was known by many in the central Ohio community as a respected leader and dedicated civil servant. To his four daughters— Elizabeth, Amy, Laura, and Lynnette—Senator Espy was also a proud family man who shaped countless lives through his boundless optimism, generosity, and sense of humor.
“He always talked about the importance of using what you’ve been blessed with for a purpose that’s greater than yourself,” said Laura.
Former State Senator Ben Espy. Photo courtesy of the Espy family.
Senator Espy grew up in humble means. Sharing a two-bedroom house in Sandusky, Ohio, with his parents and two sisters, Senator Espy received a scholarship to attend The Ohio State University, where he was recruited to play football under legendary coach Woody Hayes. After graduating from Ohio State in 1965, Senator Espy earned a law degree from Howard University in Washington, D.C.
He went on to lead a long and distinguished career in public service—as an attorney, a member of the United States Air Force, a Columbus City Councilmember, the city’s first Black person to serve as President Pro Tempore, and a State Senator. Living by the motto, “If it is to be, it is up to me,” Senator Espy also established the Columbus Youth Corps, a program that taught work ethic and professionalism to youth.
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As his daughters shared, Senator Espy was particularly passionate about helping young people succeed. “He felt a moral obligation to make this a better place for not just his children, but other people’s children,” Lynnette explained.
Following Senator Espy’s passing, friends and family approached The Columbus Foundation to establish a charitable fund in his honor. The Senator Ben Espy Opportunity Fund will support the causes he cared deeply about, including providing opportunities to youth—especially those experiencing poverty, food insecurity, violence, or other challenges.
Reflecting on the many lessons they learned from their family, Elizabeth, Amy, Laura, and Lynnette credit their parents, who were married for 54 years, for instilling in them strong values of service and leadership. Their mother, Kathy Duffy Espy, was also deeply involved in the community, including through volunteer board service. Kathy passed away in 2022.
“The four of us were very blessed to have parents that demonstrated what it looked like when you give back and you are a servant leader,” Elizabeth said.
“They both had a deep sense of community,” added Amy.