Doris Marie Meeker Benson

On July 14, 2011, God took the hand of Doris Marie Meeker Benson and led her into the heavenly home He has prepared for her, there to await the family, relatives, and friends who grieve at her passing but rejoice at her reward. Doris was born in Mineola, Long Island, New York, on July 18, 1931 to Harry and Marie Meeker, the only girl of six children. She graduated from Hempstead High School and then Packard Junior College in New York City. Married in 1953, she devoted her life to her husband and the five children God blessed them with, as well as their 13 Grandchildren and 5 Great-Grandchildren. She was an excellent homemaker, cook, and gardener. Doris especially enjoyed entertaining family and friends at their vacation home on Padre Island which reminded her of the beaches of Eastern Long Island where she spent her childhood summers. A favorite playmate to her children and Grandchildren, she later became their special friend, mentor, trusted advisor and role model.

Doris was preceded in death by her parents and her brother, David Meeker. She is survived by her loving and devoted husband of 57 years, Lt. Col. Jack Benson, USAF(ret.), son Chris(Jennifer) Benson, daughters Mary (Patrick) Stanchak, Barbara (Carlos) Madrid, Elizabeth (William) Hurt, all of San Antonio, Texas, and Margie (David) Wilkins of Boise, Idaho; 13 Grandchildren and 5 Great-Grandchildren. Also, brothers Harry (Joan) Meeker, Peter (Kathy) Meeker, Roger (Ann) Meeker and Jon (Nancy) Meeker all of Vero Beach, Florida, as well as numerous nieces, nephews and cousins. Family visitation will be at Sunset Memorial Park and Funeral Home on Thursday, July 21st at 5PM followed by a rosary at 7PM. Doris’ life will be celebrated with a Mass on Friday, July 22nd at 11:30AM at St. Pius X Catholic Church. Graveside services will be at Ft. Sam Houston National Cemetery at 1PM.

In lieu of flowers, Doris requested that memorials be made to Vitas Hospice Care, 5430 Fredericksburg Rd., San Antonio, Texas 78229, or a charity of your choice.