Jean Benedict Melanson, Jr. “Ben”, 78, of Port Charlotte, Florida, formerly of Waltham, Massachusetts, passed away on Sunday, March 1, 2026, in Port Charlotte.

Born on June 29, 1947, in Waltham, Massachusetts, to the late Jean B. and Mary H. (née Doucette) Melanson, Ben led an exciting and varied life.  While young, Ben’s quickly discovered first love was music and in the 60’s he became lead guitarist with The Montclairs band, which won the Jaycees Battle of the Bands in Weymouth, MA, and ended up featured in a movie as a result.  Ben spent many years employed at Project Place in Jamaica Plain, MA, counseling homeless and at-risk teenagers.  After many years living and working in Massachusetts and New Hampshire, he retired from Verizon and eventually moved to Port Charlotte.  Throughout his life, Ben made easy, fast friends with all animals, and his affection for many loving pets over the years remained an important part of his life.

Ben and his long-time partner Gail F. Manzelli have enjoyed living at Maple Leaf Estates in Port Charlotte for 9 years and the many activities the park offers.

In addition to his parents, Ben is predeceased by his sister Sybil Martin of Weston, MA and his brother Charles Melanson of Sudbury, MA.  He is survived by his loving partner Gail, their longtime close friend Mary Revins, and by his 5 nieces and nephews, whose calls of “Uncle Ben is here!” signaled the start of many cherished holiday memories.

A private service celebrating Jean’s life will be held at a later date.

Friends may visit online at www.robersonfh.com to extend condolences to the family. Arrangements by Roberson Funeral Home & Crematory Port Charlotte Chapel.