Barbara D. Benoit

1951 - 2016

Barbara Dorothy Benoit passed away peacefully on November 21, 2016 with her husband and daughter by her side. She was born on January 16, 1951; the daughter of Dorothy and Rev. Nelson Egbert of Brattleboro, VT.

Barbara grew up in Philadelphia, PA, Bennington, VT and Eagle Bridge, NY. As a child Barbara loved spending time in the kitchen baking, and was quite possibly the best hoola-hooper ever.

She was a lifetime scholar. Barbara began her education at Cambridge Central School and received her high school diploma in 1969. Her deep love of learning continued through the years, earning two bachelor's degrees, one in Fine Arts in English and one in Fine Arts in Music. Later on she earned a Master's in Fine Arts in Creative Writing and had the opportunity to study abroad in Scotland. She also earned a second Master's in Fine Arts in Poetry. Barbara's poetry appeared in numerous literary magazines such as Cimarron Review and Shenandoah. She published a book of poems called "Waiting for the Thoroughness of Winter" in 2013. She also served as a poetry judge for New Hampshire's 2012 national competition, and received a Vermont Council Artist in Residence Grant. Barbara also studied a Course in Miracles and she became a certified Reiki practitioner. She had an interest in palm reading, handwriting analysis, Tarot Cards, Astrology and Numerology.

Barbara was employed at the Brattleboro Retreat for fourteen years as a mental health worker. She was employed at Morningside Shelter for six years. She also earned her Vermont real estate license and was employed as a real estate agent for Berkley and Veller in the early 90's.

She was a local piano teacher in Brattleboro and had too many students to count. She held many piano recitals, and played numerous venues, including the Senior Center and various nursing homes. She wrote and received a grant to supply local children with free keyboards and piano lessons. Barbara continued to take piano lessons herself throughout her life.

On October 28, 1973 she married her true counterpart, David Benoit.They stood together in good times and in bad. Their marriage was full of devotion, commitment and love. She had two children, Drew and Claire; she always put her children first and made any situation fun. As a mother she incorporated music, cooking, and spirituality into her parenting, and became a true advocate for her children. She became a grandmother in 2004 to three granddaughters. Barbara was a pillar of strength and courage in the eyes of her granddaughters showing them her warrior spirit in later years. Her youngest granddaughter deemed her "Tough Nana".

Barbara was preceded in death by her father, Reverend Nelson Egbert; her special Aunt Lorna, and her beloved son Drew, who all met her at the Gates of Heaven with open arms.

She is survived by her husband, David Benoit of Brattleboro; a daughter and son-in-law, Claire and Joshua Renaud; granddaughters, Sophia, Audrey and Paige Renaud all of Guilford, VT; a daughter-in-law, Jennie Benoit of Brattleboro; her mother, Dorothy Egbert of Vernon, VT; sisters, Joan Egbert of Brattleboro, and Anne Egbert Larnard of Amesbury, MA; brothers, Nelson Egbert of Arlington, VA and James Egbert of Germantown, MD, and many nieces and nephews, Chris Egbert, Emily Fitzmaurice, Neil Egbert, Kate Rosenbaum, Liz Egbert, Jeffrey Larnard and Jonathan Larnard.

Barbara will be forever cherished by her family. She taught her children and grandchildren forgiveness, perseverance, and to stand up for what you believe in. Her impact will be immeasurable. Barbara was multi dimensional and multi-talented. She never stopped exploring, and always chose to live in the light.

SERVICES: Services will be held December 10th at 2:00 pm at the First Baptist Church, 190 Main Street, Brattleboro, VT. A reception will follow, all are welcome to attend. The KER-WESTERLUND FUNERAL HOME, Brattleboro, VT is assisting the family.

Condolences may be offered at www.kerwesterlund.com

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