Iris Priscilla Benson of Laurel passed away at home on Dec. 26, 2022. She was born on Oct. 25, 1936 in Pittsville to Virgie L. Baker and Eschol D. Jones. In addition to her parents, she was predeceased by four brothers, Norman, Charles, Eschol and Roy Jones, and her son, Barry E. Benson.
She is survived by her high school sweetheart and husband of 67 years, Jack Benson; son John Benson (Georgie); daughter Cheryl Benson; granddaughters Bethany Benson and Shari Norte (Grant); grandsons John Henry Benson, Brad Benson (Erin) and Zack Mitchell; five great-grandchildren; sister Ruth Mathews and several nieces and nephews. Iris was a dedicated homemaker, member of the Laurel Lioness Club and member of Christ United Methodist Church. She will be fondly remembered by her grandchildren for creating magical Christmas Eves in her basement, riding on the golf cart around their chicken farm, playing dominoes, dodgeball and trouble in the shop and hosting family gatherings on Sundays where she ensured everyone was full from endless snacks.
A memorial graveside service will be held at 11 a.m. on Saturday, May 13 at Odd Fellows Cemetery in Laurel. In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to a charity of choice. Arrangements are in the care of the Hannigan, Short, Disharoon Funeral Home in Laurel.