Nancy Jo Benson

Nancy Jo Benson, 76, of Chana, IL passed away March 28, 2025. She was born October 22, 1948, the daughter of Charles and Elizabeth “Betty” Greenberg. Nancy was a graduate of Carthage College and obtained her master’s in counseling from Northern Illinois University. She went on to teach Spanish and French at Harlem High School, later becoming a beloved guidance counselor. Nancy loved being a teacher and cherished her many students. Nancy married the love of her life, Kent Benson in 1982. Nancy enjoyed reading and had many talents. She was a gifted fabric and paper artist and quilter, often finding solitude and serenity in her studio. She also loved her time on the farm, a very special place that Nancy and Kent created together. She was a member of Womanspace since 2003 and a long time and grateful friend of Bill W. Nancy will be deeply missed by those who knew her and loved her.

Nancy is survived by her beloved husband, Kent; bonus daughters, Julie Benson-VanEenenaam and Erika Benson; grandchildren, Florian Benson Stricks, Kenton VanEenenaam, Lila VanEenenaam, Hazel Stricks; brother, Tom Greenberg; nephew, Steven Greenberg; nieces, Heidi and Amy Greenberg. Nancy is predeceased by her parents, and loving son, Kevin Buck.

A Celebration of Life will be held Sunday, May 18th, 2025, at 12:00 – 3:00 pm at Womanspace, 3333 Maria Linden Drive, Rockford, IL 61114. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to Womanspace in Nancy’s name, https://womanspace-rockford.org/donate. Family encourages you to please share photos of Nancy in the guestbook below. These photos will be displayed at Nancy’s Celebration of Life.