Mary Ann Benson

Mary Ann Benson, 82, beloved wife, mother and grandmother passed away December 1, 2016 at the Tallgrass Creek long term care facility. She was diagnosed with Alzheimer’s disease and resided in a dementia facility for the past 4 years.

She is survived by her husband of 59 years, Bernard (Bernie) Benson; her three children, Karen Jaqua (Jeff) of Overland Park, Bryan Benson (Sybil) of Libertyville, IL, and Trish Saponaro (Andy) of Canton, MA; her eight grandchildren, Jonathan (Anna), Hayley, Courtney and Trevor Finch; Ty and Anna Benson; Samantha and Drew Saponaro; and her sister Pat Falligant of Lake Bluff, IL. Mary Ann was preceded in death by her parents, Aloysius and Hortense Geraghty, and her two brothers, Frank and John.

Mary Ann was born in Tulsa, OK, but primarily grew up in Houston, Texas. Mary Ann graduated from the University of Houston with a major in psychology and history. In 1954, she led the effort that transformed a local college club into the first Delta Gamma chapter at the University of Houston and served as its first president. She remained active in the sorority over the years, participating in their various philanthropic causes and serving as alumni advisor and mentor to the chapters at Wichita State and Tulsa Universities. For all these efforts, she received national recognition from her sorority.

It was in Houston that Mary Ann met her husband. Besides Houston, she and her husband lived in Wichita and Tulsa before settling in Leawood in 1992. Both she and her husband belonged to the Church of Resurrection. Over the years, Mary Ann taught Sunday School classes and volunteered with various organizations, including a local food pantry.

To her family and friends, Mary Ann was known as an engaging, kind, caring and fun-loving person. She brightened the room where ever she went and left us all with many funny stories to remember.

A private family service and burial will be held Friday, December 9 at Mount Moriah, Newcomer & Freeman Funeral Home, 10507 Holmes Road. The family suggest memorial contributions be made to the Alzheimer’s Association or Church of the Resurrection.

The family wishes to thank the care and compassion given Mary Ann at the Tallgrass Creek medical facility and other such facilities.

Arrangements under the direction of Mt Moriah, Newcomer & Freeman Funeral Home, Kansas City, MO.