Elva Gayle (Meleen) Benson
April 8, 1943 — May 16, 2022
Elva Gayle Benson (Meleen), “Abby”, 79, of Palmyra passed away Monday, May 16, 2022. Born April 8, 1943, in Warren, PA she is the daughter of the late Rexford Meleen and Betty Putnam (King).
Abby turned her love of children into a career, working first at Happiness Street Nursery School and later opening a daycare in her home. She loved the children and their parents and considered them family. When her passion outgrew the space her home afforded, she opened a daycare, Special Friends, Inc. which she eventually sold. It didn’t take long until she was back doing what she loved most, working with her Palmyra First United Methodist church family to start Noah’s Little Ark Preschool where she later taught and served as a director until she retired in 2017. In her free time, she enjoyed visiting the beach and spending time with her family. Abby loved with her whole heart and was there for everyone with open arms. She will always be remembered by her strong will and determined personality.
In addition to her loving husband Boyd L. Benson, she is survived by her children: Jane Wenrich (Wayne), Tim Benson and Susan Heller (Todd) Grandchildren: Ryne Fureman, Tyler Heller, Hunter Heller, TJ Benson, Dolan Fureman, Tristan Benson, Libby Benson and Abigail Heller, eight great grand-children. Sister: Sue Chase; Sister in law Barb Putnam and many others that she considered family. She was preceded in death by her daughter Lorie Benson, brother R. John Putnam and stepfather Herbert Putnam.
A Visitation will be held on Thursday, May 26, 2022 beginning at 5:30 pm, with services to follow, at 7:00 at Palmyra First United Methodist Church. 520 E Birch St Palmyra, PA 17078, with Pastor Jim Anderman officiating. Arrangements have been entrusted with the Rothermel-Finkenbinder Funeral Home, 25 W Pine Street Palmyra, PA 17078. 717-838-9211. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made in her memory to Noah’s Little Ark Preschool. Memories and condolences may be shared at: www.finkenbinderfamily.com
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