The Foundation mourns the loss of former Ohio State Senator and Ohio Access to Justice Foundation Board Member Ben Espy.
Espy joined the Foundation’s Board of Directors in 2010 and became an emeritus member in 2019. Espy served boldly throughout his tenure on the board and provided thoughtful expertise and a demonstrable commitment to access to justice.
Espy’s career, which spanned over 40 years across both public and private sectors, reflected that of a true advocate dedicated to serving Ohioans and meeting their legal needs. For over 25 years, Espy was the president of his legal firm, Ben Espy Co. LLC, where he centered his practice on governmental affairs, litigation, probate and estate planning, and education law.
In the public sector, Espy served as president pro tem of the Columbus City Council for 10 years prior to being elected to the Ohio Senate in 1991. Espy broke racial barriers as a state senator by becoming the first African American to be the top leader of one of the General Assembly’s four legislative caucuses when he served as the minority leader from 1996 to 2000.
Espy leaves an indelible impact on the legal community for his unwavering commitment to service and improving the lives of those in need.
“Ben believed that there is always a way to make things better, and he never asked ‘why,’ but rather ‘how do we accomplish it,’” said Foundation Executive Director Angie Lloyd. “He made the Foundation a better organization, and he made the lives of Ohioans richer for his service.”
The Foundation extends our sincerest condolences to Espy’s family and friends. He will be sorely missed.
The Ohio Access to Justice Foundation’s Board of Directors serves from around the state and is committed to improving access to justice. Meet the board.