Celebration of life service will be held at Englewood Church on May 23, 2026, at 1 pm for the visitation and 2 pm for the funeral service. Flowers may be sent to the church between 11 am and 1 pm.
Born on March 4, 1943, in Kansas City, MO, to John Robert Townsend, Sr and Janie Townsend.
Benny was born into a family of 12 and enjoyed a loving childhood. He was popular in high school as the star running back on East High's football team. As an adult, he enjoyed his work with the local government of Kansas City in waterworks, parks, and recreation. He was a member of Englewood Church and sang in the choir with his wonderful voice.
He was a family man and enjoyed card games, especially at family gatherings. He had a love for music and was always singing. He also coached his daughter’s basketball team and was an active volunteer in his church and community. He was loved by many throughout his lifetime and will be greatly missed.
He is preceded in death by his parents, John Robert Townsend Sr. and Janie Townsend. He was also preceded in death by his siblings, Willie B. Townsend; Leroy Townsend; Louise Summers; Lucille Littleton; Geraldine Jones; Jerry Townsend ; Janie Holmes; and Gloria Jean Townsend. He is survived by his wife, Winnie Townsend. His daughters Tina Clayton; Shari Townsend; Kezia Townsend; Benita Townsend, and Iris [Breyton] Reardon. His sons, Enrick (Rico) [Nita] Clayton; Benny [Jessica] Townsend Jr. His sisters Jennie M. Townsend; Norma J. Townsend; and Lorine [Harry] Hill.
He is also survived by many grandchildren, nieces, nephews, cousins, and other relatives and friends, and the classes, faculty and staff of East High School and the East End families.
Services will be held on May 23rd. The visitation will be held at 1 pm, and the memorial will begin at 2 pm. The service will be held at Englewood Church 10628 East Winner Road Independence, Missouri 64052. Flowers may be sent to the church on May 23rd between 11 am and 1 pm.
Thank you all for your prayers and kind words during this difficult time. We love you all and appreciate you!
