Jean Benn, 91, passed away on Monday, March 4 in Scottsdale. Jean was born in Lafayette, Indiana on June 6th, 1927, to George and Elsie Marshall Olliver. She was a proud graduate of Battleground High School and worked at Purdue University where she met her future husband, Keith Benn. They were married for over 52 years until his passing in 2002. Jean, Keith and their 3 children moved to Phoenix in 1958 and then settled into their lifelong home in 1959. For fun, she worked part-time at Diamond’s Thomas Mall/Park Central and retired from Dillard’s Park Central after over 25 years. Jean loved sports and was a longtime supporter of both Purdue and ASU sports programs. She also enjoyed bowling, bridge, BINGO, and video poker until her passing. Jean is survived by her son Bruce, daughter Barbara and husband Sam Ruddy, daughter Lisa and husband Bill Warner. Jean also has 6 grandchildren, Bryan (Candace), Sean (Laura), Devin (Shannon) and Colton (Catherine) Ruddy, Keith Warner and Carolyn (Joe) Lewton along with 5 ½ great – grandchildren. A celebration of her life is being scheduled. In lieu of flowers, we ask that you please reach out to: Kidneyfund.org. For further information and to express condolences please go to www.whitneymurphyfuneral home.com
Robert Bethell
Barb, I’m so sorry to read about your mother today in the paper. I’ll always remember her as a kind cheerful person. She was especially nice to me when I was on a bowling team with Bruce and I cost us the match. I wish I had known her better! Please pass on my condolences to Bruce, Lisa and the rest of her family. Thinking and praying for you all!
Marian Dail
On behalf of the Cosine Club, I send sincere sympathy to Jean’s family. Jean was a member of our engineers’ wives club for many years, and we shared lovely luncheons and many activities. We are honored to have had her as a precious and special friend.
With love and prayers,
Members of the Cosine Club
Valerie Lauerman
Barb, I saw the obituary in the paper and it brought back memories from our dance class days with Miss Frances. Your mom impressed me then at a young age and I would see her periodically over the years and she was so engaged with people, with life, and I admired that about her. I am sorry for your loss.
Valerie Angulo Lauerman
Donald Petersen
Barb and the Benn family. So sorry to read of your mother’s passing. We enjoyed her and your dad on our trips to Mexico and Australia. Please know the family is in our thoughts and prayers.