Shirley Irene Benson

Shirley Irene Benson passed away July 16th, 2024 surrounded by her daughters and beloved cat, Sandy. Shirley was born on December 12, 1935 to Leroy and Ethel Smith in Tulsa, Oklahoma. Shirley grew up on a dairy farm where she learned the value of hard work and perseverance. She graduated from Bixby High School in Bixby, Oklahoma in 1953 and attended Oklahoma State University for a short time. She met her husband, Laurence Benson (Larry) when they were employed by The Tulsa World Tribune newspaper. The couple married in 1956 and shortly thereafter moved to Miami, Florida where their two daughters were born. In 1964, Larry accepted a job in Tallahassee and the family moved north. Shirley was a resident of Tallahassee for the remainder of her life. She worked at Sutton’s Kindergarten as a preschool teacher, Girard’s Jewelry Store as the manager, and The Gem Collection as a sales representative. Shirley was a faithful member of Trinity United Methodist Church in Tallahassee, where she participated in the Ladies Circle Group. She was a member of P.E.O. Chapter FP, The Tallahassee Historical Society, and the Antique Car Club. She volunteered as a docent at the Goodwood Museum and the Knott House, and as a reading buddy for elementary school students. She loved birds and watching them brought great joy to her life. Shirley will be remembered for her humor, loving, and caring spirit and her generous hospitality She was a wonderful hostess to her friends and family and one of the best cooks around. She and Larry were avid travelers and toured the world with their friends. Shirley was the beloved matriarch of her family, leaving behind her daughters, Kerri Mohar (Rob), Gigi Kady, five granddaughters and one great grandson. She is survived by her sister, Betty Willis (Glen). She is preceded in death by her husband of 56 years, Larry, and her son-in-law, John Kady. A Celebration of Life will be held at Trinity United Methodist Church, 120 W. Park Avenue, Tallahassee, on Saturday, August 17th at 11:00 a.m. There will be a reception following the service. In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made in Shirley’s honor to The P.E.O. Foundation, 3700 Grand Ave., Des Moines, IA 50312, reflecting her commitment to the support and advancement of women’s education. Shirley’s legacy of kindness, humor, and community involvement will be deeply missed and enduringly remembered by all who knew her. Breanna Green of Bevis Funeral Home (850-385-2193 or www.bevisfh.com) is assisting the family with their arrangements.

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Shirley Irene Benson

December 12, 1935 - July 16, 2024