Rita Benson

1930 ~ 2020

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Rita Mildred Benson, 90, passed away peacefully on December 4th, 2020. She was warmly greeted in heaven by her parents; Rodger Wells Benson and Donna Leishman, her four brothers; Jack, Rodger, Grandon and Preston, and a niece; Kathy Simmons, and a nephew; Craig Benson.
Rita was born on July 21, 1930 in Cardston, Alberta, Canada.

Rita enjoyed traveling. She traveled the world and saw many exotic and interesting countries. One of her biggest hobbies was genealogy. She was a true detective during her research and found many relatives. Due to her research, she found out that her ancestors were the pilgrims who traveled with the Mayflower vessel and the handcart pioneers who travelled across the plains to the Salt Lake Valley.

Rita was a faithful member of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints. She found many wonderful friends through her ward that loved her dearly, and she loved them.

Rita is survived by her brother, Wright (Trisha) Benson and Anthony Benson; Sister-in-law’s, Peggy Pepper and Marcia Peterson, niece’s, and nephew’s, Stacey Benson, Wells Benson, Rodger (Karla) Benson, Deb Jeans, Kelly (Eli) Doolin, Katherine Maynard, Nicholas Pepper, Erika Pepper, Jessica Pinkerton and many great nieces and nephews.

A public viewing will be held on Thursday, December 10, 2020, from 1-3pm at Larkin Sunset Lawn (2350 E 1300 So.). Following the Utah COVID-19 protocol, masks and appropriate social distancing are required to enter the mortuary. Private interment services will take place at the Larkin Sunset Lawn Mausoleum the following day.
Due to the COVID-19 pandemic and wanting to keep all those who loved Rita safe, a celebration of life will be announced later in the spring.

Thanks to the wonderful people at Legacy Assisted Living and Aspire who have been such incredible help. God bless you forever.


Guestbook/Condolences

Rita was a kindred spirit that I connected with the moment I met her. She proved that age has no meaning when it comes to friendship. We loved family history, books, and the gospel. And understood the lonliness that comes from being single and the promises made in God's plan. I will miss her terribly but I know she is where she wants to be, pain free, and connecting with all those family members she loved so much. Until we meet again my dear friend.


- Rebecca Shaw

Dear Wright, Trish, Peggy and extended family,

We will always be grateful that Rita was a part of our lives, but even more so for the wonderful friendship she had with our dad, Gary. Rita and Gary started off as neighbors and became very dear friends. She was a strong, smart woman who would push back, which drove Gary nuts when he offered advice that he felt she should take. We had some good chuckles over their silly disagreements. But at the end of the day, they would have done anything for each other.

We have missed our visits with Rita since Gary's death four years ago. We did keep in touch by phone, but not the same. We hope she has had a beautiful reunion with her family and friends waiting in heaven for her. She will be missed.

Love,
Andy and Kellie Vander Veur


- Andy & Kellie Vander Veur

My condolences to the family! Rita was a wonderful person. She lived across from my Grandfather, Gary Nelson for many years and we really enjoyed saying hello when we were in town.


- Tonya Laforett

Dear Rita, a remarkable Sunday School teacher in our Midvale condo ward. More than that she was always a friend I enjoyed visiting with in her lovely home as a visiting teacher. It has been nearly 20 years since I’ve seen Rita but some people leave their mark never to be forgotten though we move away. Countless students, children and adults, influenced for good. I’m fortunate to have been one.


- MaryEtta Parkinson

I am sorry to hear of the passing of Rita. I worked with her at the Family History Center and really enjoyed her sense of humor and infectious laugh. My condolences to her family for the loss of this wonderful lady.


- Darle Taylor

Prayers and fond memories are what we have to remember our dearly departed. My most heartfelt condolences to you and your family Peggy. May God rest Rita’s soul🙏🏼❤️


- Dr Georgann Toop

I met Rita on our first day at Albion Middle School and loved her every day thereafter....she was warm and funny and truly one of a kind. I am incredibly lucky to have had her in my life and be called her friend. I will miss her greatly.


- Sheryl L Thurman