Sponsored by anonymous.
Anita Carter
August 20, 2022
I didn't get a chance to meet Cuesta but wanted to. I admired her work tremulously. She will definitely be missed.
Wilene Smith
August 20, 2020
I think of you often, and miss you.
Joann Thompson
October 10, 2007
To Cuesta's family:
We met over 20 years ago when came to town as guest speaker for the SC Quilt documentation. She stayed in my home, played "restaurant" with my daughter, and became "Aunt Q". The world suffers the loss of a great researcher. I am privileged to hold personal memories of her humor, wisdom and encouragement.
Jean Nigro
September 28, 2007
To my dearest family, some things I'd like to say...
but first of all, to let you know, that I arrived okay.
I'm writing this from heaven. Here I dwell with God above.
Here, there's no more tears of sadness; here is just eternal love.
Please do not be unhappy just because I'm out of sight.
Remember that I'm with you every morning, noon and night.
That day I had to leave you when my life on earth was through,
God picked me up and hugged me and He said, "I welcome you."
It's good to have you back again; you were missed while you were gone.
As for your dearest family, they'll be here later on.
I need you here badly; you're part of my plan.
There's so much that we have to do, to help our mortal man."
God gave me a list of things, that he wished for me to do.
And foremost on the list, was to watch and care for you.
And when you lie in bed at night, the day's chores put to flight.
God and I are closest to you....in the middle of the night.
When you think of my life on earth, and all those loving years
because you are only human, they are bound to bring you tears.
But do not be afraid to cry; it does relieve the pain.
Remember there would be no flowers, unless there was some rain.
I wish that I could tell you all that God has planned.
But if I were to tell you, you wouldn't understand.
But one thing is for certain, though my life on earth is o'er.
I'm closer to you now, than I ever was before.
There are many rocky roads ahead of you and many hills to climb;
but together we can do it by taking one day at a time.
It was always my philosophy and I'd like it for you too...
that as you give unto the world, the world will give to you.
If you can help somebody who's in sorrow and pain,
then you can say to God at night......"My day was not in vain."
And now I am contented....that my life has been worthwhile,
knowing as I passed along the way, I made somebody smile.
So if you meet somebody who is sad and feeling low,
just lend a hand to pick him up, as on your way you go.
When you're walking down the street, and you've got me on your mind;
I'm walking in your footsteps only half a step behind.
And when it's time for you to go.... from that body to be free,
remember you're not going.....you're coming here to me.
Ruth Ann Mahaffey (author)
©Copyright 1998-2007
Linda Karppinen
September 22, 2007
Her life was a blessing to many.
Sarah Dangelas
September 13, 2007
I was lucky enough to chat with Ms. Benberry when we sat together on a quilt exhibit bus tour in Dallas during the AQSG conference in 2003. She was wonderful. Full of energy and awe. And she was encouraging and friendly. I will always remember those personal moments with her, and feel honored that I had them.
Yolanda Hood
September 11, 2007
Cuesta was one of the most knowledgeable and sweetest people I have known. She was so kind and patient and generous with me while I was working on my dissertation. I will miss her.
Anita Peeples Jones
September 10, 2007
Cuesta will always be an inspiration to so many...Her interest and knowledge and, most of all, her ability to open up eyes of the world to the often hidden talents of quilters of color and our quilts...Quilting 'sisters' always remember - we are because of how she shared with us!
Thank you to the Benberry family for providing the loving support to her so she could share with us, my prayers and thoughts are with you in your loss.
Rachel Cochran
September 9, 2007
Cuesta Benberry was a continuing source of inspiration. Her encouragement of others and adherence to high standards of scholarship advanced the field of quilt study in innumerable ways. The Heritage Quilt Project of New Jersey was honored to receive her continued support and interest. We are truly thankful for all she so generously and joyfully shared.
The Heritage Quilt Project of New Jersey
Barbara Schaffer, President
Rita Erickson, Vice President
Roni Mitchell, Treasurer
Rachel Cochran, Editor
Tom Crabb
September 7, 2007
Cuesta was a fan of mine when I was a skinny legged boy working a quilt symposium for my mother some 30 years ago and I quickly became a fan of hers. She and my mother were friends and collaborators for years and she sent me the most heart-warming message when my mother died. Cuesta's passing brings forth many wonderful memories of her warm home and presence. We will miss you for a long time to come.
Dean Duval
September 6, 2007
George I'm so sorry to hear about the loss of your mother.No bond is as great as that between a parent and child. My deepest condolences are with you as you grieve. Please convey these wishes to your father. Your Mom sounded like a wonderful women who left her mark on many people as she passed through life. Jacki and I will keep you in our thoughts. Take care my friend.
Pati Shambaugh
September 5, 2007
Though we have not met in person, Cuesta has nurtured my quilting career. I have been facinated by her vast knowledge. She taught me so much through her books.
Cuesta will truly be missed by everyone she has touched.
Cheri Watkins
September 4, 2007
A mother is a special person only you will know how much she will be missed.God bless you and your family
Barbara A Baker
September 4, 2007
As a Missourian also I delighted in your books! We will miss your additions to our world of quilting tremendously! May you enjoy the world of literature and quilting in your new home.
Sarah White
September 4, 2007
Cuesta was such a wonderful person -- so generous and sharing. She made everyone she met a personal friend. She will be missed greatly.
Sharon Pearson
September 3, 2007
Though I never met Mrs. Benberry, she has a special place in my heart. Her love of quilts was extraordinary and I know her love for her family must have been beyond extraordinary. Please accept my condolences. She will be truly missed.
grace thorne
September 3, 2007
The quilting world has lost a cherished member. My condolences to her family and friends to whom she was surely a treasure.
Carolyn Mazloomi
September 2, 2007
I was deeply saddened to hear about the death of Cuesta. She has been a close friend and mentor for over twenty years. Her encyclopedic knowledge and research of American quilts is legendary and so was her generosity. She lived her life as a model of grace and goodness. We are all blessed to have had Cuesta touch our lives. Cuesta will remain a powerful inspiration to me.
Marlene O'Bryant-Seabrook
September 2, 2007
To Cuesta's husband, son, daughter-in-law & grands,
It should be comforting to know how dearly your loved one was respected and loved by others. She spoke/wrote of you often.
For more than 10 years, Cuesta was a mentor and friend. I will truly miss her telephone calls, letters, and e-mail messages which she used to share her vast knowledge, endearing friendship and matchless wit. She was "one in a million", another like her may never pass our way again.
Peggy Barkle
September 2, 2007
May you rest softly upon the fabric that comforted you while you wispered your prayers for a world at peace and a life fullfilled. With love Peggy B
Mary Jo Reed
August 31, 2007
My sincere sympathy to Cuesta's family. Cuesta was a friend of my mother's, Maxine Teele, and when events gave me the opportunity to write a biography about her and her quilting, Cuesta was the first one I contacted. She was enthusiastic and supportive and told me so many wonderful things about the quilt world during Mother's days. She also furnished me with names of other quilting friends of Mother's. I could not have written the book without her. I will always be grateful to her.
In sympathy,
Lisa Iversen
August 31, 2007
I did not meet Cuesta in person, but am grateful for her legacy that will inform generations of quilters to come.
Betty Leacraft
August 30, 2007
August 30, 2007
To the family and friends of Cuesta Benberry,
I extend my deepest condolences and prayers to all of you. Cuesta was well loved and greatly admired by many people. I would like to share a few of my memories.
I remember:
her friendliness, warm smile, and gracious manner.
her humor and encouraging words.
her beautiful jewelry and accessories (she could really wear them).
her wonderfully entertaining letters and lovely penmanship (pre-computer days).
her special way of lecturing, not unlike a master storyteller.
her tireless, extensive research which has given respect and recognition to African American quilting as an artform.
her changing my life, inthe early 90's, by introducing me to Carolyn Mazloomi and the Women Of Color Quilters Network.
Dear Queen Cuesta, Esteemed Ancestor, I will miss you so much. Your spirit and memory will always be with me. With each new work I create I will think of you.
Respectfully,
Jerri & Art (Ora Kibby) Williams
August 30, 2007
May God continue to Bless your lives with precious memories of dear Ms. Cuesta. What a leagcy she has left to her family, friends & the Petersville clan! Our Love & Prayers with you always!
Charley Kibby Johnson
August 30, 2007
To George & George Jr. and the entire family. We are so sorry for your loss. Mrs. "Q" was Oscar's grade school crush and his 4th grade teacher at Dunbar. I thought she was the prettiest thing that ever happened to our neighborhood "Petersville". She was a real sweetie and a wonderful woman. May God continue to bless and comfort you through this time of sorrow, Oscar & Charley (Bummie) Johnson & Family
Regina C Murphy
August 30, 2007
Mrs Benberry was my 3rd grade teacher she was truly a great inspiration in my life and I know that she will be truly truly missed.
Peggie Hartwell
August 30, 2007
As we mourn the passing of our beloved friend and colleague Cuesta Benberry, let us also celebrate her wonderful life and the tremendous contributions that she made to quilt research and history. Cuesta made visible - and gave voice to - our glorious past. Most importantly, she paved the way for the next generation to do better and go father. Through her amazing dedication, Cuesta Benberry will always be presence in our hearts. My prayers are with her family. May they find peace in knowing that she still lives through her work and in the memories of the countless people whose lives she touched and made so much better
Candy Martinez
August 30, 2007
It's so hard to put into words what knowing Cuesta has meant to me. She is so special that I can only say that she is the grandest of the 'grand dames' that I have been blessed to know. In addition to all of her wit and wisdom, the aspect that I will cherish most is her humor. Her ability to make me smile, just by thinking her name.
Geri Ford
August 30, 2007
Her grace and her art was an inspiration to all of us. Though she will be missed, it is nice to know that you will have her quilts to wrap yourself in and be able to feel some of her love coming through the fabric to comfort you.
Lynn Wilson
August 29, 2007
Many thanks to Mrs. Benberry for her life of giving to children as a teacher. Our profession is blessed by her work. The world is made more beautiful by her work in the quilting world. Peace be with all those fortunate enough to know and love her.
Viola Canady
August 29, 2007
It is with heartfelt sorrow that I extend my sympathy to the family of Cuesta Benberry. You are in my prayers.
Cuesta and I had shared many telephone conversations, however, we met in person when she was inducted into the Quilt Makers Hall of Fame in Northern Virginia during the early 1980s.
In 1991, I was honored when Cuesta came to Washington, D.C. to be the Guest Speaker at a two day ceremony in honor of me. It was the unveiling of my fabric stained glass applique of the Charles Sumner School Museum located in the District.
Cuesta was a mentor, a friend, and a honorary member of The Daughters of Dorcas and Sons Quilting chapter.
My friend will be dearly missed.
Maren Lindberg
August 29, 2007
You must miss her terribly. I met her only once, and heard her speak only once, but I have the greatest admiration and respect for her and her huge contributions to the quilting world. May she rest in heavenly peace forever!
Maria Goodwin
August 29, 2007
Cuesta was a long-time friend and supporter. Such a treasure! We’ve all benefited from her many achievements, her wisdom, and especially her friendship. Viola Canady and the members of the Daughters of Dorcas and Sons extend our sincere prayers and deepest
sympathies to her family and friends. May your many memories of Cuesta help you – and us all – through these days.
We miss you, Cuesta. But you left behind a great legacy, and a challenge – to stay the course.
Almetta Cookie Jordan
August 29, 2007
Cuesta Benberry's insights, scholarship, and friendship will be missed. Cuesta was so forthcoming with information to any and all that sought her out. She was truly a treasure and I am so glad I had the opportunity to sit at the feet of greatness. I love you Miss Benberry!
Sarah Ann Smith
August 28, 2007
I give thanks for the life of Cuesta Benberry and the legacy she left to all of us, and also give thanks to the family that nurtured, supported and encouraged her. My thoughts are with you all,
Sarah
Dale Drake
August 28, 2007
I met Cuesta at the Quilters Hall of Fame Celebration in 2004, and was so impressed by her knowledge and her demeanor. Since then my respect for her has grown as I've learned more about her contributions to the quilt history body of knowledge. She was a great woman, and we will miss her.
Barbara Imes JORDEN
August 28, 2007
To the family and friends of Cuesta-I extend my sympathies to all. Please know at this time God has wrapped his arms to enclose you all, and give you 'piece' and understanding in your loss. Know that your Cuesta has truly brought those quilters from the past, the now, and the future, the joy of our coming "out of the shadows" and truly being accepted for what we see and do with fabric as African American quilters with a vision. She has shown that we do not copy what others do, nor do we all do improvizational quiltmaking. Thank you Cuesta for bringing this important information to the 'Art' Quilt world. I'm so glad my sister and I met you in 1993, in Louisville, Ky at a quilt show. Rest in 'piece'sister quilter.
Joanne Walton
August 28, 2007
Oh, how I wish I could have met this divine woman in person. She has left a legacy for us to uphold and treasure."God is the master weaver, and only He knows when the tapestry is complete."
Gwendolyn Magee
August 28, 2007
Cuesta was a dear friend and mentor. The warmth of her spirit as well as her kindness and generosity were shared with many. She will long be remembered not only for her incisive scholarship, but also for the beauty of her soul.
Lucy Algere' Lincoln, MA and
August 28, 2007
I never personally met Ms. Benberry except through her work. That body of research has meant the world to me. She was a true treasure and will never be forgotten because she inspired so many many of us. Tiny stitches are being made in heaven now. Thank you Ms. Cuesta.
Sonji Hunt
August 28, 2007
I wish that I had been able to meet Ms. Benberry. She seemed a smart, kind woman who graced the lives of many through her friendship and scholarship. My sincerest condolences to her family, friends.
August 28, 2007
Cuesta was a wonderful friend with whom I spent time at Point Bonita and once on a visit to my home. She had wit as well as wisdom and a conversation with her was always rich. She was also a good correspondent and I treasure a file of her letters. I join the many others who will miss her sorely
Lynette Jackson
August 28, 2007
As a novice quilter, Cuesta Benberry to me was a motherly voice of authority. I never met her in person, but she often wrote in on the African American Quilt Group on Yahoo. I appreciated her insight and guidance. She will be sorely missed by the quilt world. The quilt I finish this week will be in remembrance of and dedicated to her. My thoughts and prayers are with her family.
Carole Lyles Shaw
August 28, 2007
Cuesta was a generous and loving Spirit and a brilliant scholar. She was an inspiration to so many of us in the artquilting and quilting world. She will always be remembered and loved.
Anita Carter
August 27, 2007
I extend my sympathy to Cuesta Benberry's family also. I would see Mrs. Benberry name on some of the books I researched on Africa America Quilt. She will surely be missed in the Quilting world. I would defintely improved and prefect my quilting skills in her honor. We all need to take one child and teach quilting skills to continue the quilting in the African America society. Rest in peace my sister.
Cindy Brick
August 27, 2007
Cuesta was one of the most human quilt scholars I've ever met, whose intelligence and depth of research was matched by her gracious willingness to comment and share. Our textile world is a little darker for her passing. Thank you, Cuesta's family, for sharing her with us. She will be missed.
Valerie White
August 27, 2007
By the time she arrived at the gate they had already gathered needle,thread and angel cloth. Someone said she was coming... They were waiting for the quilt bee to begin, Cuesta is there now sitting and sewing, making the most beautiful quilt.
To the family: we thank you for sharing her...
God bless and keep you.
Sincerely,
Valerie C. White
Louisville, Kentucky
Kitty Dade
August 27, 2007
Although I never met her personally, I have often heard and read of her contributions (Always There was one of my first Afro-Am. quilt books) to the quilt world. She will be missed.
Joe Cunnigham
August 27, 2007
When I started making quilts in 1979 Cuesta was extremely generous with historical information and encouraging to me: a newcomer to the field and ignorant of much of it. When I met Cuesta in person a few years later it was like meeting a sister I did not know I had. She had a great mind and a warm generous spirit that brightened all our lives. I miss her a lot.
Creole Creations
August 27, 2007
I met her in NY at the women of color network quilt exhibit at the Museum of Biblical Art. her voice in promoting african american quilting and telling the breath of the talents of AA women as opposed to the stereotype that were promoted was powerful. i will miss you. my prayers go to your family. You gift of history will be be long remembered.
Jackie Joy
August 27, 2007
Thirty years ago when I began quilting, Cuesta Benberry was the voice of quilt history. She has been an inspiration to me.
Laura Fisher Antique Quilts & Americana
August 27, 2007
Extraordinary woman, pioneer in the field of quilt studies-inspiration to every group/article that followed her example. Remarkable what she preserved and documented and shared, formed the core of what we now cherish in quilt history. Her commitment, knowledge, kindness and enthusiasm with be missed. Laura Fisher/Antique Quilts & Americana
Dr. Myrah Brown Green
August 27, 2007
To the family of Miss Cuesta, may strength continue to be bestowed upon you during this time. Miss Cuesta made those of us that she touched feel as though we were special and our research mattered. I am truly grateful that she touched me.
Peace and Blessings, Myrah
Marilynn Gipson
August 27, 2007
God created every soul to serve a specific purpose during the time span he place you on his earth. Determine that purpose and fulfil it as Cuesta Benberry did. We have all been touched by her life and her purpose in life. I had the pleasure of meeting her and will continue to remember her generous warmth and sharing of knowledge and love. Thank you Cuesta Benberry for Always Being There for others. Rest in eternal piece. God Bless your family for being able to share her with the rest of the world.
Patricia Randolph
August 27, 2007
Cuesta rose to the ranks of celebrity in the world of quilt history but she remained my precious friend and mentor for almost 38 years. She will hold a special place in the hearts of all who knew and loved her.
Shirley Bullock
August 27, 2007
Over twenty years ago, Cuesta was the first African American associated with quilting I saw on TV. I immediately connected with her. Three years ago, I met her and have a special place in my heart for her. We will miss her tremendously but have joy because she was a part of our lives.
Rosemary Claus-Gray
August 27, 2007
I extend my sympathy to Cuesta Benberry's family. She was a pioneer in the quilt world. The quality of her work as an historian will endure. She will be missed. God bless her and her family. Rosemary Claus-Gray
Marla Jackson
August 27, 2007
I had the honor of meeting Cuesta,at the Threads of Faith exhibition in New York. What a great lost to all. Marla
a Jackson Women of Color Quilt Network.
Ann Baker
August 27, 2007
Thoughts from far away, by a British admirer of Cuesta's work.
Greta VanDenBerg
August 27, 2007
I have for years hoped for an opportunity to meet Cuesta Benberry, whose work I have admired, read and been inspired by for so many years. My prayers are extended to her family and friends for all to have peace and know the comfort of God's blessings.
carolyn allen
August 27, 2007
I met Mrs. Benberry in 2002 during AQSG conference in Virginia. She was gracious, inspiring & sharing with all. My condolences to family friends and those of us who aspire to speak of quilts historically.
Louise Tiemann
August 26, 2007
Although I never met Cuesta in person, I feel as though I knew her. As I was doing research on the Ladies Art Company, her name kept coming up. I found many issues of Nimble Needle Treasures, Quilters Journal and Quilters' Newsletter Magazine had her beaming face along with her numerous articles. Over the years I had thought about contacting her, and now I am sorry I didn't. I wish her family peace and love. With kindest regards, Louise
Celeste B. Janey
August 26, 2007
I may not have met Cuesta in person, but I have met her through her literature. Sister, you will be greatly missed. I pray for your family and I hope that through my talents, I will be able to keep your legacy, going.
Iris Simmons
August 26, 2007
Because of people like you Cuesta, people like us who follow you would not have a sense of connection and importance to our history. We are forever grateful. Thank you for keeping us focused and for giving us a beacon. You will always be with us.
Jaye Lapachet
August 26, 2007
Ms. Benberry was a great treasure of the quilt world and I have admired her work for a long time. I hope that her contributions to quilt scholarship will serve as an inspiration to others.
Nancy Hamilton
August 26, 2007
We have certainly lost a treasure and a beautiful soul. I had the pleasure of meeting Mrs. Benberry just once last year and will forever cherish the time we had to talk about our common passion--quilts, of course. Her smile was infectious and she was generous with her kindness. My deepest sympathies go to her family and all who loved her.
Marian Hayes
August 26, 2007
I never had the pleasure of meeting Mrs.Benberry, but I've admired her research and contributions to quilters.
Peace and Blessing
Now and Always
Theresa Polley-Shellcroft
August 26, 2007
Dear Faimly of Cuesta, We have been very honored to have her among us...to do the research and to keep our history. Thank you for sharing her life with so many. Her legacy lives in us and into the future. My most heartfelt sympathy to you. Blessings and Peace unto you!
Pamela Davis
August 26, 2007
Although I did not have the previledge of meeting Mrs. Benberry, I wish the family comfort in their time of bereavement and pay tribute to a great artist. I continue to be inspired by the message of love for the art in her quilts!
Amy Korn
August 26, 2007
My heartfelt sympathy to Cuesta's family and dear friends. Her presence in the quilt world continues through her generosity of spirit and her amazing grace. We were blessed to have shared her passion.
Sharron Evans
August 26, 2007
I'm very disappointed I didn't have the privilege of meeting Ms. Benberry. From all I've heard, God has a special person at his side.
Patricia Cummings
August 26, 2007
Cuesta, a much beloved figure in the world of quilt history, has passed from our midst, but not from our hearts. With an eye towards presenting the facts, in an unbiased manner, she was a friend to all, with a ready smile. She will be sorely missed. Please accept our condolences, and pass on her spirit of love, as her legacy to us all.
Karen Alexander
August 26, 2007
To Cuesta's family, thank you for sharing Cuesta with us these many years. If we think we are going to miss her, we know the hole in your lives is even larger! And to Cuesta... your legacy will live on for generations and take on many forms, not the least of which was your example of mentoring. Your joy and zest for what you were about was infectious. Your words of encouragement were food for budding researchers and veterans alike. Your spirit of curiosity, scholarly discourse and meticulous inquiry into anything and everything related to quilts set the standard and laid down the foundation of a new era in quilt research. Thank you for your generosity, dedication, commitment and friendship.
Edna Patterson-Petty
August 26, 2007
Cuesta I will truly miss you and your generous smile. You gave me encouragement when I was feeling doubtful and out of my element. You helped me to realize that my uniqueness was my strength.
Barbara F. Wallace
August 26, 2007
Dearest Cuesta, You will remain a powerful inspiration to me. I felt honored to have visited you and listened while Faith and you had your historical conversation about quilting. Thank-you for your legacy. Go with God. Barbara.
joy rock
August 26, 2007
I never met Mrs. Benberry, but she has been a beacon in the quilt world. Ihope her passing was peaceful and that her familly will be strong and safe. They are in my prayers.
Xenia Cord
August 26, 2007
Friend, mentor, consummate researcher, gentle lady: considerate of speech, generous of heart, sharing of mind, your legacy enriches us all. We are fortunate to have walked a way with you.
Hazel Carter
August 26, 2007
Dear Cuesta, I owe my love of research to you. Your writings were an inspiration to me. I shall forever remember our week-end in New York with my friend Sue Hannan and your friend from Boston. Your support of the Quilters Hall of Fame has meant a great deal to me. I treasure my last two emails from you. You will be missed for years to come.
Evelyn Bunbury
August 26, 2007
My thoughts and prayers are with you in your time of grief. May your memories bring you comfort.
Wilene Smith
August 26, 2007
Rest in peace dear friend. You have been the mentor and inspiration to all my own accomplishments since first visiting with you a quarter century ago. (Has it really been that long?) How many, many hours did we spend on the phone over the years? My files bulge with your voluminous letters written on yellow tablet paper in the days before e-mail came along. You will indeed be missed!
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