The AIA is saddened to report that Benjamin E. Brewer Jr., FAIA, who served in 1988–’89 as the 65th president of the AIA, passed away December 17. He was 71 years old.

A native of Houston, Brewer earned his BA in architecture from Rice University, and a master of fine arts from Princeton University. He practiced architecture in many roles from sole practitioner to urban developer. He was a founder of 3D/International, principal of Lloyd Jones Weber, and principal of Sikes Jennings Kelly and Brewer, whose projects ranging from residential to urban planning, earned the firm numerous design awards, including those from Texas Society of Architects and AIA Houston.

In addition to his service as national president, Brewer’s many contributions to the AIA local chapters included serving as president of both TSA and the Houston Chapter. While on the national board, he was active as chair of the Design Commission, as well as on the boards of the AIA Foundation and the AIA Service Corporation. He served on the Finance and Business Committee and chaired the Planning and Budget Committee. He was elevated to the AIA College of Fellows in 1976.

Equally active in community and university affairs, Brewer was a member of Rice University Associates and the Advisory Council to Rice’s school of architecture.

Brewer is survived by his wife Carolyn Brewer, Assoc. AIA; son Benjamin E. Brewer III, AIA; and three other children. The memorial service will be held at 1 p.m. on December 22 at First Presbyterian Church, 5300 S. Main Street, Houston. A memorial fund has been established in Brewer’s honor at Rice University, and remembrances can be sent to: Memorial Fund for Benjamin E. Brewer Jr., Rice University, Office of Development, MS 81, PO Box 1892
Houston, TX 77251-1892.

Copyright 2003 The American Institute of Architects. All rights reserved. Home Page