Shirley A Benjamin

Lanesville-

  **  Memorial Visitation  **

Saturday August 2nd from 2pm to 4pm at the Funeral Home

Shirley A. Benjamin, a cherished matriarch and a beacon of warmth in her community, passed away peacefully surrounded by her loving family on July 10, 2025, at the age of 81. Born on May 14, 1944, in Margaretville, Shirley's life was a testament to her unwavering dedication to her family and her love for the simple pleasures of nature.

Shirley's journey began as the daughter of Clarence and Myrtle Ostrander Fox, who predeceased her. The values of family and hard work were instilled in her from a young age, shaping the wonderful woman she would become. Shirley's heart found its match in Charles Benjamin Sr., with whom she built a life filled with love and laughter until his passing in 2005. The couple was blessed with five children, though they faced the heartbreak of saying goodbye to their son Charles Benjamin Jr. in 1996.

A devoted mother, Shirley's legacy lives on through her children: Blair (Peggy) Benjamin, Michael (Jill) Benjamin, Cheryl (Frank) Ruddy, and Gina (Chris) Freeman. Her sister, Doris Benjamin, and brother, Roger Fox, also survive her, carrying with them memories of a lifetime shared. Shirley's spirit will forever be cherished by her adoring 12 grandchildren—Mindy, Heather, Dalton, Kristen, Jessica, Brendan, Derek, Crystal, Brett, Amanda, Katelyn, and Erin—and her 12 great-grandchildren—Catarina, Charlie, Elizabeth, Emelia, Evelyn, Russell, Chelsea, Autumn, Audrianna, Zoey, Hudson, and Celia—who will continue to be inspired by her example.  Shirley is predeceased by her siblings Sonny ( Clarence Jr.), Billy, Betty, and Selma.  

Before dedicating her life to raising her family, Shirley worked at Stucki's Embroidery in Boiceville, where she was known for her meticulous craftsmanship. As a homemaker, she was the heart of the home, ensuring that everyone was cared for and that the house was filled with joy and comfort.

A lifelong resident of Lanesville, Shirley found solace in the great outdoors. She relished in the simple pleasures of long walks, camping with her family, and preparing firewood for the winter months. Her property was a canvas for her love of landscaping, and she took pride in maintaining its beauty. Shirley's connection to nature was profound; she delighted in the company of hummingbirds and squirrels, the tranquility of the natural world around her and the companionship of her dog Nook.

Shirley's nimble fingers were not only skilled in embroidery but also in assembling intricate puzzles, a hobby that reflected her patience and attention to detail. Her ability to piece together the most complex of images was a metaphor for her approach to life—finding joy in creating harmony from disparate pieces.

As Shirley's final days were spent in Kingston, she remained surrounded by the love and care of her family, a fitting tribute to a life so deeply devoted to others. Her passing was a natural close to a life well-lived, marked by resilience, love, and the nurturing of the many lives she touched.

Shirley A. Benjamin's memory will be held in the hearts of all who knew her, a reminder of the beauty of a life centered around family, nature, and the simple joys that make a life rich and full. She leaves behind a legacy of love, a family that adores her, and a community that will miss her gentle presence. A Memorial Visitation will be Saturday August 2, 2025 from 2pm to 4pm at the E. B. Gormley Funeral Home 87 Main St. Phoenicia.  Memorial contributions may be made to the SPCA, as she loved her dogs, or the Parkinson's Foundation.  You may share a special memory, photo, or condolence with the family on Shirley's Tribute Wall at www.gormleyfuneralhome.com

To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of Shirley A Benjamin, please visit our floral store.