Beatrice "Bea" Benson

Beatrice "Bea" Benson, age 80, of Fallston, Maryland, who formerly resided in Joppatowne and Towson, passed away suddenly on January 29, 2016, at Upper Chesapeake Medical Center, surrounded by her loving family. Born in Winchester, Virginia, she was the daughter of the late Russell and Ethil Miller; beloved wife of the late James "Ben" Benson;

Bea grew up on an apple orchard in Winchester which fostered her love of nature and gardening. She had a long career as an award-winning beautician. Bea's greatest love was her boys, who encompassed three-generations. She was an avid Hopkins lacrosse fan, who enjoyed attending her grandsons' games.

Bea touched the lives of countless people. She was devoted to Good Shepard Presbyterian Church, where she worked tirelessly on church activities. She was involved in countless charitable causes, including making teddy bears for police officers to keep in their cars to give to children who were in distress. Every year, Bea helped provide Christmas meals and presents to many people in need.

Bea was a woman with tremendous energy who spent her life pursuing a wide diversity of interests. She was an outstanding hostess and cook who loved to entertain. Her parties are legendary with family and friends. Bea and Ben were avid boaters who frequently spent weekends on their boat "The Busy Bea", exploring the Chesapeake Bay. She participated in golf and bowling leagues. Bea was a member of the Joppatowne Garden Club. She was devoted to the Republican party. Bea was well-traveled, making many trips abroad.

She is survived by her fiancé Joseph J. Chenowith Sr. of Fallston. She is the loving mother of Rodney Benson and his life partner, Anna Lee Hoodem, of Washington, DC and Jeff Benson and his wife, Eraina, of Ft. Lauderdale, FL; loving grandmother to Robert Benson and his wife Taylor, Joseph Benson and his wife Katie, and Gavin Benson and great-grandmother to Tucker and Griffin Benson. She is also survived by her sisters; Linda Ramey and Onile Bishop, both of Winchester, VA. And her brother, Robert Miller of Arlington, VA.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be sent to Good Shepherd Presbyterian Church, P.O. Box 457, Joppa, MD 21085.