An ordained minister, well-known musician and faithful servant who devoted his life to helping people hear God speak
Rev. Dr. Gerald Benson | 1936 – 2026
The Canadian Bible Society (CBS) celebrates the life and legacy of Rev. Dr. Gerald Benson, who passed away on October 1 at the age of 90. A minister, musician and author, Gerald devoted his life to sharing the Christian faith through Scripture, music and faithful service.
His devotion to Christ shaped his 18 years with CBS. He held the role as District Secretary and Chief Executive Officer in 1979 until his retirement in 1997. Alongside his wife Ruth, he helped advance CBS’ mission of making God’s Word accessible to people in Canada and globally.
Gerald’s commitment to our ministry also inspired him to preserve its history. In a book he co-authored, To the Ends of the Earth: A History of the Canadian Bible Society, he documented the people, places and efforts that carried the Canadian Bible Society’s work across communities and generations.
“Gerald gave so much to the Canadian Bible Society, not only through his leadership, but by preserving our story,” Rev. Dr. Rupen Das, President, Canadian Bible Society. “His book looks back on a distinguished history while reminding us to look forward with faith to a bright future. We thank God for Gerald’s life and faithful service.”
Gerald’s writing also brought together two lifelong passions: music and Scripture. In 1987, Gerald published a collection of favourite hymns of Newfoundland and Labrador—where he grew up—sharing the stories behind the songs and their writers. At that time, the collection raised more than $30,000 for Bibles in Russia, extending the reach of his ministry through the music he loved.
Through his leadership, writing and music, Gerald contributed to a mission that remained close to his heart. We thank God for his faithful service and his legacy: Scripture shared, history preserved and faith expressed through song.
As we remember Gerald, we extend our heartfelt condolences to Ruth; their children, Scott, Todd and Gillian; their grandchildren and great-granddaughter; and all who mourn his passing. May they find comfort in God’s presence and in the hope of the Scriptures that Gerald devoted so much of his life to sharing.
“Surely the righteous will never be shaken; they will be remembered forever.” – Psalm 112:6
