Mr. Ben R. Cleveland

Mr. Ben R. Cleveland, 90, of Alexander City, passed away at Bill Nichols Veterans Home on December 29th, 2025. His life was a testament to his strong Christian values and his unwavering commitment to his family and community. Ben was a cherished husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather, brother, and friend who left an indelible mark on the hearts of all who knew him.

Born to Joseph Asbury Cleveland and Savannah Georgia Nelson Cleveland, Ben was a beacon of knowledge and wisdom from his early years. After graduating from Hackneyville High School, he went on to proudly serve his country as a Staff Sergeant in the United States Air Force. While in the Air Force he studied Russian Language at Syracuse University and then was stationed in Japan where he intercepted and interpreted Russian air communications. He later attended Covenant College in St. Louis, Missouri where he met the love of his life, Ellen Beth Doyen. They were married in 1959. He continued his education in accounting and began his career at Continental Can Company. In 1969, he moved his growing family to Alexander City where he worked for Donald Fox Accounting and later Citibank all the while completing a certification in accounting from the University of Wisconsin. Ben’s expertise and integrity eventually led to his position as the accountant for the City of Alexander City which he held for more than 20 years. He also served as the mayor of Alexander City from 1992 to 1996.