Jeanene Pickett Benson (1950-2021) Obituary and Memorial

Life story

Jeanene had such a vibrant soul. She lit up any room that she walked into, with her radiant smile and caring nature. She left us too soon, on October 24th, after a quick and difficult battle with Leukemia. Jeanene was born on March 9th, 1950. She was only 10 years old when her mother, Viola, died of leukemia, leaving behind Jeanene, her father Elmer, and 5 siblings; Garth, Pam, Bruce, Kevin and Bryan. Elmer went on to marry Bernice Nelson, who lovingly stepped into the role to nurture and raise Jeanene as her own. Together, Elmer and Bernice added 4 more children to the family; Micheline, Jeri Vaughn, and Lisa. Even from a young age, Jeanene was an incredible support to her younger siblings. Her loving nature was evident as she cared for and tutored them throughout their lives.

Jeanene had only one son. In her younger years, she may have prayed for more, but I believe it was a blessing in disguise. The relationship that my family and I were able to have with her was unmatched. Jeanene taught me many skills and lessons throughout my time knowing her. I was lucky enough to be her only daughter-in-law, which, to me, meant that I didn’t have to share her too much. I have countless beautiful memories with Jeanene that I cherish so much. The time she spent on each of her individual relationships was inspiring. Not just with her immediate family, but with every single person she knew. She took the time to get to know your likes and dislikes, and would go out of her way to make you feel special. Whether it was by baking your favorite treat on your birthday, or by sending you a personalized card, she never missed out on caring for her loved ones.

As her family grew, Jeanene became the most loving Grand and Great Grandmother. She taught them many lessons and skills, which they will carry on in her memory. She was so giving to them, but had a sweet-stern way about her that taught them good habits. She was an incredible example of love, patience, and compassion to everyone, especially her family. This last week since her passing, I can’t help but think of what big shoes I have to fill. Jeanene was so sharp. She could fix anything, and I mean anything. It was very rare to hear her ask for help. No challenge was too challenging for Jeanene. She had an incredible love for quilting. She showed it by making countless quilts for her family and friends. We are so lucky to have them to cuddle up with. She was a woman of many talents, but I’d say her biggest one was the way she showed up for and loved people. I’ll work every day to be half the woman she was.

She loved her Savior, Jesus Christ, with all of her heart and soul. She enjoyed Primary songs, and was the Primary pianist at her church for 16 years. She had many callings in the Church, and did an immaculate job performing each of them.

We are going to miss this beautiful lady, as she has touched so many of our hearts. We love her so much and will carry her lessons with us always. She is finally able to reunite with her two loving Mothers, her Father, and 2 sisters in Heaven.

We will miss being able to call her to get an answer to any of our wide range of questions. She truly seemed to know everything.

We will miss watching funny movies with her. Watching Jeanene was more entertaining than the movie itself. She would laugh out loud with that contagious laugh of hers, causing everyone else to laugh with her.

We will miss seeing her stand at the top of her long driveway as we pulled out from her house, arm-in-arm with Gary, smiling, waving, and blowing kisses until we were out of view. I know that she’s up in Heaven, standing at the top of that driveway, smiling, waving, and blowing kisses as she looks over us.

Read the obituary

Photos

See all 48