Norman Frank Benson

Norman Frank Benson, aged 90, passed away on March 1, 2026, in Marblehead, MA. Born on December 10, 1935, Norman led a distinguished life marked by his commitment to education, family, and community service.
Norman completed his high school education at Ely High School and went on to earn a BA and MA from the University of Minnesota Duluth, followed by a PhD from Ball State University. His professional journey was deeply intertwined with his passion for education and religion. He served as the Director of Religious Education for the world for the Unitarian Church, where he also worshipped. Additionally, he made significant contributions to academia as a Professor and Basketball Coach at the University of Southern Illinois and Boston University, and later as a Graduate Professor and Dean of Education at the University of Massachusetts Lowell.
Beyond his professional life, Norman was known for his noble character; honorable, wise, and loyal. Described as having the spirit of a Viking King, he was a generous and handsome educator who deeply valued his role as a father and grandfather. His hobbies included golf, fishing, long beach walks in his beloved town of Swampscott where he raised his family, and being a staunch advocate for civil rights and equal education opportunities. Norman was also a voracious reader and had a keen interest in history and current events.
Norman is survived by his sister Carol, children Ryn Benson and partner Genevieve Morton, Kristen Scott and fiance David Mullane, Jennifer Benson Kelly, Derek Benson and fiancee Eve Bender; stepchildren Jeff and Hilary Johnston, and Bruce and Kim Johnston; grandchildren Justin Benson Barrett and his wife Meghan, Logan Simms Kelly, Christopher Benson Camuto and his wife Gentiana, James Alistair Scott, Ryn Spenser Benson and his wife Alexandra, and Caroline, Anna, Reid, and Maisy Johnston; great-grandchildren Jackson and Matilda Barrett. He was preceded in death by his grandson John Vincent Camuto, his parents Frank and Norma (Nicholson) Benson, his former wife and mother of his children Sarah Benson, and his late wife Carlene Merrill, along with numerous cousins and relations from Robinson Lake, MN.
A celebration of Norman's life will be held in the spring. In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to the Unitarian Church of Chelmsford, in honor of his commitment to both his faith and his community. Norman's legacy will be cherished and remembered by all who knew him, as a pillar of wisdom, kindness, and dedication.