Civil rights legend and community leader, Ben Frazier, passes away one day after his 73 birthday

JACKSONVILLE, Fla — Long-time journalist, civil rights legend, founder of Northside Coalition and community leader Ben Frazier has passed away Saturday evening, just one day after his 73 birthday.

“It is with love and heartfelt sorrow that the family of Benjamin McVickers Frazier, Jr. shares the news of his passing just one day after his 73rd . He was surrounded by family and close friends as he courageously ended his nine-month battle with cancer at 9:00 p.m. on Saturday, June 24, 2023 at Shands Hospital in Jacksonville,” said his daughter Kelly Frazier in a news release.

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Frazier became the first Black anchor of a major news show in Jacksonville and was also an award-winning civil and human rights leader.

He became a tireless voice for those in need, even as he courageously battled cancer these past nine months.

Frazier also received the NAACP’s Rutledge H. Pearson Civil Rights Award for his advocacy and outstanding contributions to civil rights over many decades.

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Ben Frazier was also invited to speak with the United Nations Committee to Eliminate Racial Discrimination (CERD), an accomplishment he was extremely proud of.

He fought for equality among Jacksonville’s citizens, equity in our neighborhoods, and integrity, transparency, accountability, and compassion in our government.

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“He will be missed solely by family, friends, and the Jacksonville community,” says Kelly Frazier.

Other notable members of the Jacksonville community have also shared their condolences. See the statements below for the community’s reaction.

Sheriff T.K. Waters

“I send my condolences to the family of Ben Frazier and the Northside Coalition. It is my hope that his family and friends find comfort during this difficult time.”

Mayor-elect Donna Deegan:

Jacksonville Community Action Committee:

Jacksonville City Council member Rahman Johnson:

“Last night I learned that Ben Frazier’s nine-month battle with cancer ended.

Ben Frazier was truly a force of nature. His legendary voice won't just be remembered because of its tenor, but more for its global impact. I was a child when I met Mr. Frazier, as a friend of my mother. They worked together in broadcasting. He was one of the reasons that I wanted to become a news anchor and reporter. While his career was unprecedented and a pattern for success, he would remind me that his life was also a series of lessons in what not to do. I am honored that as an adult he became my friend. We often shared special moments, conversations, and text messages.

As a newly elected member of the Jacksonville City Council, I am a direct result of the legacy of Ben Frazier’s work. Looking back on his emails, he would always make salutation saying, “My Leader.” Today, as a local member of our Black Journalists Association, I hope to lead by celebrating a life well-lived. I am thankful for his grace and friendship. Though he has transitioned, the work that he started assures his legacy. My heartfelt condolences to his family, friends, our NABJ family, and the Northside Coalition. May he rest powerfully and may his memory always be a blessing.”

—  Statement from Rahman Johnson

Florida Democratic Party Chair Nikki Fried:

Duval Democratic Party Chair Daniel Henry:

Jacksonville City Council member Reggie Gaffney Jr.:

“I want to extend my condolences to Mr. Ben Frazier’s family. Just like many of you, I was shocked and saddened by the passing of a great giant. Ben Frazier was and still is a pillar in our community. He fought for the equal treatment of people and stood unapologetically for his beliefs no matter what side of the line it fell on. Being a witness to his passion during our City Council meetings, he made me “see” him, pay attention to him and respect the impact he had on our laws and the lives of others in and throughout Jacksonville and both nationally and internationally. For that, he will never be forgotten. He is forever etched in history.”

—  Statement from Reggie Gaffney Jr.

NAACP Jacksonville Branch:

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