Benedict Francis Paul Labunski, 84, died peacefully at home surrounded by family on December 13, 2025. Ben was born on July 2, 1941.

Ben is predeceased by his parents; Stanislaus and Cecilia Labunski, his son; Brennan Labunski, and two sisters; Lorraine Carroll and Nancy Horick.

Ben grew up in the South End of Albany, NY. He chose to join the United States Navy in 1958 at the age of 16, and bravely served during the Vietnam War on the Essex aircraft carrier.

Besides his love of family, Ben's life is most notably marked by his dedication and heroism while on the Albany Fire Department. Ben's work was known as legendary, and his techniques are still taught today, despite retiring in 1989. Ben served 25 years as a Heavy Duty Rescue firefighter, living their motto, "First in, Last out" with each fire call. Ben was a humble man, and would shy away at the thought of being called a hero. His countless awards, newspaper articles, and praise from fellow brothers all tell a very different story.

Following retirement from his heroic career, Ben became a master gardener. He truly had a gift for seeing the beauty in everything, and his gardens were his art. You could often find Ben "puttering" around, planting flowers, fishing, and walking his "little dogs."

In 2006, Ben and his wife Eileen decided to move to Conway, SC, ditching the cold weather for Carolina blue skies. They had vacationed in South Carolina for many years and built their dream home on a pond that boasts the most beautiful sunsets. For 20 years, Ben and Eileen built a home full of love, laughter, and many Costco trips for snacks for whoever may stop by the house.

Ben never met a stranger. He truly lived his life with an open heart, a listening ear, and a grateful spirit. He had a unique quality of meeting people exactly where they were in life and without judgement, only love.

Ben is survived by his devoted wife of 20 years, Eileen. Their love story is one for the ages and will live on as a beautiful example of true love and commitment.

Ben is survived by his beloved children; Bonnie O'Connor (Michael), Dacey Erik, Kelly Labunski (Tina), Shawn Labunski (Heather), Jason Labunski (Renee), Eric Labunski, JJ Kasarjian (Teneka), Christopher Kasarjian (Tina), and Tiffany Waddell (Stephen).

In addition to his wife and children, Ben is survived by his grandchildren; Brennan, Tyler, Rylee, Jordyn, Kennedy, Talia, Dylan, Avery, Benedict, and Archer.

In lieu of flowers, we encourage you to "Live Like Ben," and enjoy life's many gifts with the people you love. Ben never missed an opportunity to compliment a stranger, plant a flower, lend a helping hand, or quietly provide for anyone in need.

A funeral mass will be held at 12:00pm on Tuesday, January 27, 2026 at The Catholic Church of St. James the Younger, 1071 Academy Drive, Conway, SC, 29526. Family and friends are welcome to attend a Celebration of Ben's life, following the mass, in the parish hall.