Florence Benoit was a dedicated wife, mother, grandmother, sister and friend. She was beloved by everyone who knew her and would be described as everything from a fierce warrior to an empathetic human being who always had the best interest of others at heart. Florence had been battling leiomyosarcoma, for over five years. She faced a painful, incurable, fiercely aggressive enemy that was invisible to others, but made its presence known to her in ways that are hard to imagine. Florence fought back, and once again displayed the kind of strength that not only inspires those that love her, but will continue to inspire future generations. She was one of a kind.

Florence taught us to believe in ourselves and to always strive to be the best version of ourselves, regardless of the circumstances we may face. She was a testament to what it is to live every day to its fullest. Florence did not allow her illness to control her life. Rather, she rose to the occasion and taught us all a great lesson. Life is what you make of it. She was taken from this world too soon, but accomplished so much in her time here. Early in her career, she worked with troubled youth, going out of her way to bring joy to their lives through music. She went on to retire as the Assistant Regional Director of the New York State Lottery. She had recently focused her attention on her immediate family. She loved to travel with her husband, daughter and granddaughters, and was the biggest cheerleader for them throughout every phase of life. She made sure they knew how important and special they were to her, on a daily basis. One could not have asked for a better person to have in their corner.

In recent years, Florence lost her father, Anthony Munno, her stepmother, Vera Munno and her mother, Josephine Loprete. She is survived by her husband, Jim Benoit, daughter Jennifer Scully, grandchildren, Katerina, Isabella and Angelina Dono, sister Lisa Dobrow and too many friends and family to list.

Her favorite quote as, “women belong in all places where decisions are being made.” We couldn’t agree with her more. Florence, we are sure you are in Heaven, inspiring and organizing, making sure to drop us signs that though you’re not here in body- your spirit still has much to teach us. We promise to always listen. Words cannot begin to describe how very much you are loved and missed. Until we meet again one day… we will try to make you proud, to not take our days for granted and to remember that no matter how big our problems may appear, to never, ever give up. After all, we learned from the very best.

Thank you all for honoring and remembering the matriarch of our family, Florence Benoit.