Benjamin Stokes was mentioned in the 1 May 1837 will of his father-in-law, William Younger, proved 20 May 1839. “4thly I give and bequeath to my Daughter Elizabeth Stokes the Wife of Benjamin Stokes during her life the following property to wit two negro Women Cloe & Suckey the other half of my Land one Cow & Calf & the property she now has in possession to wit one bed & Furniture & my Gig & Harness; also one fourth part of the balance of my Estate after paying my just debts &c for her sole & seperate use and benefit and to be in no way liable for the payment of any debt or debts which the said Benjamin Stokes may at this time owe or may hereafter contract & subject in any manner whatsoever to the marital rights of the said Benjamin Stokes and at the death of my said Daughter I give all the property above named to the equally divided among her children & I do hereby constitute and appoint James Burke trustee to manage the property hereby given to my Daughter Elizabeth Stokes”. [Essex County, Virginia, Will Book 24, pages 380–381.]