Benjamin F. Coleman Jr. was born at Homer G. Phillips Hospital in St. Louis to Elder Frank Coleman and Mother Rosalie Holloway. In that union five children were born (two girls and three boys). Ben always was the go-getter and the responsible child throughout his life. Ben's father always called on him multiple times to do jobs and chores that only older men could handle.

Ben "Rascal" was very strong physically and had a great mind. He was raised as a preacher's kid and always feared God. But like most kids he was very curious about life. Rascal trusted God and matured and grew older. He began to excel in academics and sports in high school. He also led a sports team in high school. Rascal accomplished too many divisional and state titles. Rascal graduated from Sumner High School in 1959.

Ben "Rascal" boxed and ran track during that time period of his life. He remained humble. He joined a group called the "Del-Vanes", which was a local singing group in St. Louis in the 1950's. He recorded one album and sang at the Fox Theatre on several occasions. Although he continued in his singing career, he still stayed true to his belief in God. During his senior year in high school, he met Ms. Bernice Crenshaw. They both united in holy matrimony and then to this union his beautiful children were born. Ben was good at anything he put his mind to including bowling where he received many trophies and medals due to his perfect scoring. Rascal had many jobs as a young man. His last job was working at TWA as a ramp serviceman until he retired.

Ben "Rascal" is preceded in death by his parents, Elder Frank & Rosalie Coleman; lovely wife, Bernice Coleman of 55 years; one brother, Rudolph Coleman; two sisters, Beverly Ellis-Coleman, Joanne Hunt, and a host of other relatives who joined hands on that day God called him home to that great big city. Later, after Rascal lost his wife, he then found Ms. Karen and united in holy matrimony. Love was there until he answered the master's call.

Ben leaves to cherish his wife, Ms. Karen Coleman; 5 beautiful daughters, Valerie Thomas, Ann S. Coleman, Tiffani R. Coleman, Sharonda Williams (Anisha Nathaniel), and Bonty; his only son, Pastor Benjamin (Lady Lessie) Coleman; two brothers, Gilbert (Cecelia) Coleman & Giovanni (Sheila) Coleman; 12 grandchildren, 23 great grandchildren, 4 great-great grandchildren and a host of relatives and friends.