Sebastian, Fl — It is with profound sorrow that the family of Judi Benson, beloved wife of Joel Benson, shares that she passed away on Tuesday, May 6, 2025, in Sebastian, Florida, surrounded by loved ones.
Judi was born on October 25, 1942, in Waterbury, where she attended Wilby High School. A woman of quiet faith and strong values, she carried those roots with her throughout life. She was a member of St Pius X Church in Wolcott and Saint Sebastian in Sebastian, Fl.
Judi began her career as a nurse at Bristol Hospital in the operating room, a role she embraced with compassion and grace. But as much as she loved nursing, she felt an even stronger calling to family. She shifted gears to help run the family trucking business and raise her three children—roles she poured her heart into every day. She could have been so many things—nurse, counselor, business manager—but above all, she loved being there for her family and friends.
Judi’s aura was gentle and loving, with the best dry sense of humor that always came when you least expected it. She had a way of showing up just when you needed her most—sometimes literally, with a fresh loaf of banana bread in hand, whether you were friend, family member, even her doctors loved receiving her delicious homemade banana bread.
She loved cooking, traveling, skiing, boating, sipping her morning coffee, and opening her home to friends and family. Summers were spent on Lake Winnipesaukee, where the family had a cherished summer home filled with laughter and memories. Even in retirement, those traditions continued as she and Joel became snowbirds, splitting their time between New Hampshire and Florida. After retiring, Judi fully embraced life in Sebastian, Florida—adding sunbathing and weekly bingo to her list of joys, along with her ever-present love for cooking and entertaining.
Judi is survived by her devoted husband, Joel Benson; her sons, Joey Benson, Gary Benson, and Keith Benson (wife Elizabeth Benson); and her beloved grandchildren, Sophia Benson and James Benson. She also leaves behind sister-in-laws who became true sisters to her: Carol Marchand, Nancy Benson, Claire Vastola, and the late Joan Henry; and her brother-in-laws Chris, Gary, and the late Armand and Rolfe. Judi adored her nieces and nephews, including Alexandrea, Christina, the late Adam and Nate who held a special place in her heart. Her cousins and their spouses were also a very big and loving part of her life, who became extended family in every sense of the word.
Judi was preceded in death by her parents, Harry and Virginia Sasso, and her brother, Harry Sasso.
Judi will be remembered for her kindness, her quiet strength, her sense of humor, and the way she made people feel seen, supported, and deeply loved. Her spirit lives on in the many lives she touched.
Memorial contributions may be made to the Parkinson’s Foundation (https://www.parkinson.org)
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