Nov. 19, 1938 – Feb. 23, 2018

Sally Louise Benson, cherished wife, extraordinary mother, much-loved grandma and treasured friend, passed away suddenly at the age of 79. Sally was born on Nov. 19, 1938 to Oscar and Cleo Wright of Glendale.

Sally was a member of the First Baptist Church of Glendale and attended Horace Mann and Roosevelt, and graduated from Glendale High School in 1956. She met a handsome young man, Kenneth Benson, in late 1958 and they wed on Jan. 4, 1959. In 1961, she was crowned “Queen For A Day” on the Jack Bailey TV show.

Ken and Sally moved to La Crescenta in 1966 and raised two children. She worked for a time making draperies, but home was where she needed to be. This was a good thing since she would make a lifelong commitment, over 52 years, as a volunteer, not only at Dunsmore Elementary, Clark Jr. High and Crescenta Valley High School, where her children attended, but to the La Crescenta Woman’s Club, GFWC California Federation of Women’s Clubs and Assistance League of Glendale as well. Her dedication to these clubs would take her places she had never been before and she would develop some wonderful friendships.

Sally’s generosity touched the lives of people throughout the community and around the country. She was known as the “Magic Lady of La Crescenta,” “A Force to be Reckoned With,” and the “Only One Who Could Get the Job Done.” Her skills as a florist, seamstress, hostess, chef, creator of beautiful bows and gift baskets were unsurpassed. Whether it was food, decorations, tablecloths and flowers for 200, creating her daughter’s wedding dress, bridesmaid dresses and flowers, or hosting a party for 150 at her home, you could always hear her whistling or singing while she worked.

Sally is preceded in death by her husband, Ken; sister Edith Wright Halpin; and sister-in-law Beverly Underwood. She is survived by son David (Kim); daughter Karen Bynum (Jim); and three grandchildren: Beau Benson, Matthew and Jacob Bynum. She is also survived by numerous cousins, nieces and grand- and great-grand nieces and nephews.

Funeral services will be held on Saturday, March 10 at 10 a.m. at the Hall of Liberty – Forest Lawn, Hollywood Hills followed by graveside service and reception.