Benjamin Michael Shurtleff

Airman First Class Benjamin M. Shurtleff, United States Air Force, passed away on Saturday, March 21, 2026, leaving behind a legacy of service and dedication.

A1C Shurtleff enlisted in the United States Air Force in 2025, serving as a contracting specialist. He completed training at Lackland Air Force Base, Texas, where he earned the respect of his peers and leaders through his professionalism and strong work ethic.

Following training, Ben was stationed at Robins Air Force Base, Georgia, where he took great pride in supporting the installation’s critical mission to sustain and enhance warfighting capabilities through world-class logistics, maintenance, and support. His work helped ensure resources were delivered where and when they were needed, directly contributing to mission readiness.

Known for his willingness to step forward and support others without hesitation, Ben embodied the core values of the Air Force in both word and action. He will be remembered as a trusted teammate, a steady presence, and someone who made a lasting impact on those around him.

Benjamin Michael Shurtleff was born on July 5, 2004 in Athens, Georgia. He was a 2022 honor graduate of Oconee County High School in Watkinsville, Georgia. Ben was a young man of strong faith who enjoyed mountain biking, hiking, and fast cars. He made friends everywhere he went and had a gift for bringing people together. Ben is preceded in death by great grandparents, including Frances Freeborn of Asheville, NC, and grandparents Kathlynn and Timothy Shurtleff of Habersham County, GA. 

Benjamin is survived by parents, Michael and Christine Shurtleff of Watkinsville, GA; siblings, Sam (Chattanooga, TN) and Jack Raymond Shurtleff (Watkinsville, GA); grandparents, David and Claudia Freeborn of Mountain Rest, SC; aunts, Charity Freeborn (Belton, SC), Angie Freeborn (Woodland Park, CO) and Corey Freeborn (Kalispell, MT); uncles Patrick (Lisa) and Clinton (Melanie) Shurtleff of Habersham County, GA as well as many aunts, uncles, cousins, and friends from all over.

Memorial services will be held on Saturday, April 4, 2026 at 2:00 pm at Watkinsville First Baptist Church.

Lord and Stephens, West is in charge of arrangements.