of Little Rock, AR
May 6, 1923 - December 20, 2021
Ann Wilkerson Benham passed away in peace on December 20, 2021 in Little Rock, Arkansas. Born and raised in Arkadelphia, she married Paul Benham, Jr. and spent her life in Marianna, Arkansas. Paul preceded her in death, as did her parents, her brother, Tommy, and her beloved bridge group. She leaves her brother, Otho (Sunny) of Little Rock and her children, Paul III (Lynn) of Little Rock, Jim (Suzy) of Little Rock and Barbara Upper (John) of Texas, and her six grandchildren, Lindsey Ryan, Candace Johnson, Elizabeth Savage, Dale Anne Hudson, David Benham and Maggie Benham as well as eight great-grandchildren and a host of nieces and nephews.
Ann's lovely and long life was filled with love. Her family knew her love in her guidance and nurturing. She was as much at home playing on the floor with her grandchildren and great-grandchildren as she was in the Arkansas Senate where she worked while in session for many years.
Ann loved Marianna and her church. Many generations called her Miss Ann. She taught Sunday School, Bible School and was an elder in the Presbyterian Church. Ann loved Paul devotedly and unquestionably. They built a home, traveled and truly enjoyed life together. Ann's spirit of fun suffused her life with happiness. She made the mundane exciting, the everyday a party. We are grateful for the lovely life she led and know her joy in her new life.
A family service will be held at a later date in Marianna, Arkansas. Memorial contributions may be made to the Marianna Foundation Pavilion Trust c/o Lucy Smith, 103 Robertson Avenue, Marianna, Arkansas 72360.
Arrangements by Roller-Chenal Funeral Home.
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8 Condolence(s)
Vann Smith
Wednesday, December 29, 2021
I'm so sorry to hear about Miss Ann. Our family shared so many good times with the Benham family in Marianna--and so many memories. Our prayers are with Miss Ann and the Benham family.
Susan Long
Monday, December 27, 2021
Ann Benham - you were the reason I wanted to go to work each day. You were the one who put a smile on every staff members face. You always remembered my name and that I have 3 little boys - I’ll never forget that. You will always have a place in my heart. Thank you, Benham family, for sharing your precious Ann with everyone at Brookdale.
Joannne Webb
Friday, December 24, 2021
Dear Family,
So sorry for your loss. Ms Ann was a jewel. She is certainly missed. To my knowledge, Ms Ann was the only woman to ever serve on the Board of Directors of First National Bank at Marianna. Lifting you up with our thoughts and prayers. Sincere condolences.
Bob Smith
Thursday, December 23, 2021
I was saddened when I saw this today. Your mother and all of you meant so much to all of us. I am going through old pictures and will start looking for the pictures of all of us on the Bar B. What memories. I will tell Susan today about Ann’s passing. I hope to see you all soon. Bob
Jerry and Nancy Ford
Thursday, December 23, 2021
A wonderful sense of humor. Barbara you inherent her spirit as u r both extremely lovely and compassionate ladies.
Kathi Jones
Thursday, December 23, 2021
Paul and Lynn, so very sorry to hear of your mother’s passing.
Susan Murphy
Thursday, December 23, 2021
Miss Anne was indeed a special and sweet lady. My mother Joyce Murphy shared a dining table at Brookdale with her. I had the pleasure of visiting with her almost everyday.
I am so sorry for your loss, yet I know she is with her beloved Paul and at peace.
Praying for comfort for the entire family.
J belford
Thursday, December 23, 2021
Sorry for your loss Jim and Suzy