Ben Everett Hargrove, age 86, passed away peacefully on August 21, 2026, in League City, Texas. He was born on November 21, 1939, in Texas City, Texas; Ben lived a life marked by dedication to his education, his faith, his career, and his family.

An alumnus of Texas City High School, Ben graduated with the Class of 1957. He went on to further his education, graduating from East Texas Baptist College in 1961 and later earning his Master’s Degree from East Texas State University in 1969.

After more than a decade as a pastor, Ben built a respected career in public service, dedicating years of his life as a federal officer with the United States Probation Office for the Southern District of Texas in Galveston and Houston, where he helped guide and impact countless lives before his retirement. He was honored throughout his career as:  1987 – U.S. Probation Officer of the Year – Southern District of Texas, 1988 – Central States Regional Outstanding Line Officer Award and 1988 – Doyle Award – National Outstanding Probation Officer.

Ben was a pioneer in introducing targeted mental health education in the United States Probation Department. As the first mental health specialist in the Agency’s history, he played a vital role in both creating and implementing training across the country.

For almost four decades, Ben touched and served his community and his church as a Licensed Professional Counselor and Bible Study teacher.  Deeply rooted in his spiritual community, Ben was a dedicated member of Clear Lake United Methodist Church for the past 23 years.

He was a devoted husband, father, grandfather, and great-grandfather. Ben is survived by his loving wife of 23 years, Rhonda Hargrove. He was preceded in death by his parents, John and Thelma Hargrove, as well as his brother, Roy Hargrove; he is survived by Roy’s wife, Frances Hargrove. Ben leaves behind a cherished family of children and spouses: Teri Hargrove Jones and Brandon Jones, Valerie Hultquist Carmichael, Kyle Ben Hargrove and Dani Hargrove, David Lane Hargrove and Lisa Hargrove, Pamella Hultquist Chatham and Randy Chatham.  His legacy will also live on through his 10 grandchildren, 7 great-grandchildren, and 2 nieces, who brought immense joy to his life.

In lieu of flowers, the family asks that donations be made in his memory to:  Clear Lake United Methodist Church, please write Music & Fine Arts (MFA) in memo line 16335 El Camino Real Houston, Texas 77062  or Everybody’s Place (Housing Support in Galveston County)  P.O. Box 429 Bacliff, Texas 77518 http://www.everybodysplace.net

Ben was a lifelong Astros Fan and the family would like for you to dress in Astros’ colors and or attire.

A gathering to honor and celebrate Ben’s life will be at Clear Lake United Methodist Church 16335 El Camino Real   Houston, Texas  77062 at 11:00am on Saturday, September 12, 2026.