Benjamin J. DeCorte

The family of Benjamin J. DeCorte announce his passing on May 20, 2026, at the age of 36. Born on June 5, 1989, and raised in New Orleans, Louisiana, Ben brought excitement to the lives of everyone he encountered and will be remembered for his sharp intellect and incredible sense of humor. 

After earning his Master's degree from Villanova University, where he met the love of his life, Kelsey Heslin, Ben pursued his Doctorate in neuroscience at the University of Iowa. His academic accomplishments led him to a fulfilling career as a neuroscientist. Ben’s work aimed to uncover one of the most complex and challenging questions in neuroscience: how the brain encodes time. His science was creative, rigorous, and elegant. Ben leaves a bright scientific legacy through his work and in the mentees and collaborators who so respected him.

For all the impact of his work, Ben walked through life lightly, never taking himself too seriously. Those who knew him well were rewarded with Ben’s playful and mischievous side. He had a deft way of weaving wit with substance while still finding humor in the everyday. 

He is survived by his devoted wife, Kelsey; loving parents, Raymond and Susan DeCorte, his siblings, Rachel McCloskey, wife of Mitch of New Orleans, and Joseph DeCorte of Nashville, and his nieces and nephews, Hannah, Connor, Dylan, Luke, and Darcy; and a wide circle of friends and colleagues who admired him for his intelligence, dedication, and light-hearted spirit. 

A celebration of life will be held at a later date. In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to Hospice & Community Care.