Ella B. Benner, 89, of Waldoboro, passed away on the morning of May 31 with her family by her side. Born on Louds Island, on Oct. 28, 1923, she was the daughter of Alphonso and Catherine Willey.
Ella grew up on Louds Island and in New Harbor, attending schools on the island. Upon finishing school, she worked several odd jobs, but her life’s work was truly raising her children.
She enjoyed gardening, cooking and listening to country music, but it was children and her family that gave her the most joy.
Besides her parents, she was predeceased by her husband, Daniel Benner; sons, Stewart Benner, Danny Benner, and Kenny Willey; daughter, Sue Ramsey; brothers, Alphonso Willey Jr. and Harold Willey; granddaughter, Amanda Benner; nephew, Richard Willey; and son-in-law, “Gizmo” Donald Bredeau.
She is survived by her sons, Jimmy Benner and wife Millie of Waldoboro, Merrill Benner and wife Roberta of Waldoboro, and Paul Benner of Waldoboro; daughters, Marcia Benner and partner Jimmy Green of Waldoboro, Marilyn Bredeau of Damariscotta, and June Benner and partner Nathan Tozier of Damariscotta; grandchildren, Theresa Willey, Kenny Willey Jr., Adam Willey, Mark Gutek, Eric Benner, Nichole Benner, April Simmons, Renee Flint, Jimmy Benner, Timmy Benner, Angela Hoffses, David Benner, Carol Benner, Stewart Benner Sr., Lisa Chickering, Falisha Carter, Daniel Chickering, Stephen Benner, Danielle Benner, Tabitha Benner, Kelly Brown, Joshua Benner, Christopher Benner, Sara Benner and Melissa Benner; as well as many great-grandchildren, great-great-grandchildren, nieces, nephews, cousins and friends.
A time of visitation was held June 4 at the Strong-Hancock Funeral Home. She will be laid to rest in the New Harbor Cemetery 1 p.m., Sun., June 10.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Ella Benner Memorial Fund, c/o Damariscotta Bank & Trust, PO Box 999, Damariscotta, ME 04543.
Condolences, and messages for the family, may be expressed by visiting www.StrongHancock.com.
Arrangements are under the direction and care of the Strong-Hancock Funeral Home, 612 Main St., Damariscotta.
