Grayce Isabelle Benjamin

Grayce I. Benjamin, born Grayce Isabelle Hunt on November 15, 1933 in Reva, South Dakota to Frank and Grace Hunt. She was the youngest of 10 children. Grayce peacefully passed from our love to God's heavenly world on April 5, 2017. She was at home with those that loved her. Her illness came upon her quickly and was unexpected, although we will miss this beautiful person we are thankful she did not have to suffer long.

Grayce became a registered nurse in 1956. She joined the US Air Force in 1961 serving as a nurse. She served over 22 years with the Air Force. In that time she had several assignments in England as well as Taiwan. Grayce retired with the rank of Lt. Colonel. Grayce met her first husband, Noel Thomas, while in the Air Force, they were married in England.

After retirement in 1983 they settled outside of Cle Elum. Grayce remained in Cle Elum after Noel passed away. She was an active member in the community and her church, Saint John the Baptist Catholic Church. Grayce was a member of the Caring Cle Elum Ladies quilting group; they met once a week in the church basement making quilts for wounded military personnel. This group began in 2003 and has donated more than 600 quilts.

In June of 1993 Grayce and Harrison "Benny" Benjamin were married. They shared many happy times with trips to New York, Florida, and camping with friends.

Benny preceded her in death as well as both of her parents, and eight of her siblings. Grayce was a kind, loving, independent, person always ready to help others but seldom allowing others to help her. She worked hard and loved to be outdoors, working in her yard, planting a garden or just walking her dog.

All who knew her recognized what a special person she was and will miss her beautiful soul and love for others. Grayce is survived by her stepson and his wife, Fred and Betty Benjamin, her brother Pat Hunt, nieces Kimberly Wuest, Mona Sharpe, and Colleen Bigleman, and their children, six grandchildren, 12 great grandchildren, and numerous relatives and friends.

Rosary will be Thursday, April 27th at 7:00 p.m. followed by a Funeral Mass on Friday, April 28th at Saint John the Baptist Church in Cle Elum at 11:00 a.m. Graveside inurnment will follow with Military Honors. There will be a reception at the church following graveside services.

Donations may be made to Kittitas Hospice, St John the Baptist Catholic Church or to the charity of your choice.