Benay always said of herself “What you see is what you get.” That could not have been more wonderfully true. She was genuine in her interactions with others, never pretentious, and always made an effort to help those in need. She instilled her spirit of generosity into her children and grandchildren thus spreading her humanitarian impact as they carry on her legacy across the country.
Her positivity, humor, wisdom, comfort and sincere friendship will be sadly missed by so many whose lives were touched by her ever helping hands throughout the wonderful eighty years of her life. All who knew her were recipients of her handmade lap blankets, heat packs, scrubbies, and bag holders. She was an avid gardener and believer of all things frugal. Her community will miss her countless hours of volunteerism for numerous organizations including the Elba Historical Society, Crossroads House, Community Action, Genesee County Animal Shelter, the Town of Batavia Fire Department (gardener) and local nursing homes (handmade lap blankets). During the Covid-19 pandemic, Benay sewed 245 face masks as donations to the community.
Prayers for comfort as we mourn the loss of our beloved Benay are appreciated by her children Vanessa, Kelly (Luanne), and Sandra, her grandchildren Elliot Miller, Matthew Chamberlain (Genelle), Sarah Crowley (Scott), Gregg Miller, Corrin Miller (Kevin), Jordan Parker (Adam), great grandchildren Reilee, Carsyn, Jackson, Jamison Chamberlain, nephews Scott (John), Mike (Debbie), Wayne (Sandy), David (Rayne) Benz and Jim Chamberlain, nieces Debbie Chamberlain and Kathy Gardner and her dear friends Anna Fenton (Dave), Cheryl Manz, Mary Iama (Rick), and Phyllis Brassington.
At her request, a private Graveside Service will be held with no calling hours.
Memorial donations can be made in her honor to Crossroads House, PO Box 403, Batavia, NY 14021. To leave messages of condolence please visit www.gilmartinfuneralhome.com. Arrangements completed by Gilmartin Funeral Home & Cremation Company, Inc. 329-333 West Main Street, Batavia, New York 14020.
