News Summary
Benjamin Robertson Schools, a beloved Charleston resident known for his creativity and adventurous spirit, passed away after a battle with cancer. At only 29, he left behind a legacy of love for the outdoors, community involvement, and unwavering faith. Schools was deeply cherished by family and friends, especially his wife, Sarah, as they recently celebrated their wedding anniversary. His memorial service is planned for June 23, where friends and family will honor his life and contributions to conservation and the arts.
Charleston – Benjamin Robertson Schools, a cherished resident of Charleston and a passionate creative soul, passed away on June 16, 2025, at the age of 29. Surrounded by loved ones, Schools died after a courageous battle with cancer, an illness that reoccurred in recent months. His fight against the disease was marked by remarkable strength and grace, leaving a lasting impression on those around him.
Born on February 20, 1996, just one minute after his twin sister, Nella Gray, Schools was the youngest child of Nella and David Schools. The family is also blessed with an older sister, Susannah. Just days before his passing, Schools celebrated his third wedding anniversary with his wife, Sarah Alexander Schools, whom he regarded as a blessing in his life.
Schools highlighted his deep love for a variety of activities throughout his life, including surfing, writing, and exploring the outdoors. His adventurous spirit and passion for music, poetry, and reading made him a beloved figure among his friends and family. He was known for his unwavering support for those around him and was regarded as a man of profound faith.
Academic achievements marked Schools’ early life as he graduated with honors from Porter-Gaud School, where he was awarded the Anthony Toomer Porter Award. He went on to earn a Bachelor of Arts degree in English from The University of Virginia, where he participated in the Phi Gamma Delta fraternity. Schools continued his educational journey with a Master’s Degree in Fine Arts from the College of Charleston, honing his skills in creative writing and contributing writings to the Charleston Mercury while working at Kudu Coffee.
Following his education, Schools immersed himself in his community and became involved in various non-profit organizations that focused on conservation, a cause close to his heart. Recently, he transitioned into the financial services sector, working with Dan Parker’s group at Raymond James. His colleagues supported him unwaveringly during his treatment for cancer, demonstrating the strong bonds he formed within the workplace.
Notably, Schools had an enduring love for the water, often seen surfing and enjoying the scenic beaches of Charleston. Throughout his life, he found solace in nature and was an active participant in outings that celebrated the beauty of the great outdoors.
Schools is survived by his wife Sarah, his parents, Nella and David Schools, sisters Susannah and Nella Gray Schools, and grandmothers Nella Gray Barkley and Marion Newton Schools, along with numerous aunts, uncles, and seven cousins. He was predeceased by his maternal grandfather, Rufus C. Barkley, Jr., his paternal grandfather, Burton R. Schools, and an uncle. His steadfast faith in God remained a cornerstone throughout his life and struggles.
A funeral service to celebrate Benjamin Robertson Schools’ life will take place on June 23, 2025, at 5:00 PM at The Cathedral of St. Luke and St. Paul in Charleston. In lieu of flowers, the family suggests memorial donations may be made to St. Philip’s Church or the Coastal Conservation League as a tribute to Schools’ dedication to faith and conservation.
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- J. Henry Stuhr Obituary for Benjamin Schools
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- SC Daily Gazette: Scholarship Program for Debt-Free College
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