Bonnie Lee Benson

Bonnie Lee Benson

4/9/1960 - 2/21/2024

Bonnie Lee Benson, 63, passed peacefully and gracefully on February 21, 2024 in Reno after a brief illness.

She was born in Connecticut to Marshall and Bonnie Lynn Farrington, and followed her older brother Bruce all over the place. She got to be an older sister herself to Marsha, Melissa and Billy as time went on, and she was always either Bonnie Lee or Winnie or Yea (sometimes even Yay!) depending on who was talking to her. She spent her childhood in New England and rode every horse she could find as often as she could, and she loved every second of it. Her heart wasn't solely devoted to equestrian pursuits, and there were many dogs and cats that she loved over the years as well.

She was a compassionate caregiver and caretaker to animals and people alike. She spent many years working with troubled teens and, while the work was draining physically and mentally, she persevered and worked hard for her patients. She was a fierce advocate for those that couldn't protect themselves, and she fought hard against cruelty and evil.

She inherited her dad's craftsmanship and was a skilled artist that delighted many family members, friends and strangers alike with her woodworking abilities. Her participation at various fairs and events over the years brought her such joy. Whether she was making a personalized gift or commission or making crafts for general sale, she pursued excellence and leaves behind abundant treasured mementos in homes far and wide. Bonnie lived in Connecticut, California, Kentucky and Nevada, and spent most of her time in the Reno and Sparks area. She made many friends wherever she was, and she loved coffee, quarterhorses, java, pit bulls, lattes, General Hospital, mochas, Corvettes and Toyota trucks, brownies and, surprisingly, the occasional cup o' Joe. She loved laughter - whether she caused it or not - and had one of the most infectious laughs on the planet.

She's desperately missed by her siblings, Bruce, Marsha (Patrick), Melissa (Ray) and Billy (Mairis), as well as her stepmom Nancy and her step-siblings Susan, Brenda and Brian.

She's also survived by her aunts Laurie (Jay) and Sjoeke; cousins, John and Shane;

sisters-from-other-misters like Robin, Jo Lene, Deanna, and Ellen; nieces and nephews and, of course, her sidekick and guardian angel of a dog Owin

.

She was preceded in death by her loving parents Marshall and Bonnie and many adored pets including horses Sunset and Dakota & dogs Buster, Tank, Gator and Angel.

A Celebration of Life will be held on April 13th from 2-5pm at Event Palace, 650 South Rock Blvd #18 ni Reno. In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to help The Love For PACC in Winnemmucca rescue animals in trouble.