Jerry M. Benware

Jerry M. Benware age 76, of Massena, passed away July 7th 2025 in the comfort of his home surrounded by his family. He was born December 4th, 1948, in Lake Titus, NY, to the late Ralph and Bessie Benware.
Jerry graduated from Franklin Academy in Malone, NY in 1967. Upon his graduation he enlisted in the United States Navy, eventually serving aboard the aircraft carrier USS America with the Intruder attack squadron VA-165. Jerry always had a wanderlust and enjoyed traveling. He would often regale his family and friends with stories about the USS Americas 1970 deployment in the Atlantic and Pacific oceans with combat operations off the coast of Vietnam.
After his hitch in the Navy, Jerry served with the United States Army Reserve and worked in several wide-ranging fields. Including an electrician for New York State, bank manager, financial advisor and for general motors in Massena. He retired from Corning Inc. in 2006.
In addition to travel, Jerry could often be found in the garage rebuilding an old car or motorcycle, which he would often trade for another project with which he would spend his time. He played bass guitar for many bands in just about every venue in Northern New York, starting with his high school band The Orbits. A black belt in Zen Do Kai Karate, Jerry especially enjoyed conducting martial arts classes to children and always thought that his true calling was as a teacher.
Surviving are his wife Jessica Benware. His first wife Connie (Bruce Avery). Sons Todd (Robin), Shawn (Jennifer), and Lance (Melissa). Stepson Justin Rowe, Stepdaughter, Brittany Rowe-Arquiett (Cortney). Granddaughters Katherine and Abigail Benware, and Sawyer Arquiett. Grandsons Zackery Benware and Benjamin Arquiett. Brother, Jim (Sue Tupia). Sister-in-law, Patricia Benware. Brother-in-law Robert Lavoie, and several nieces, nephews and cousins.
Jerry is predeceased by his parents, Ralph and Bessie, Brother William Benware and Sister-in-law Bonnie, Sister Betty (Lavoie), and step-grandson Derek Ober.
In Lieu of flowers donations in Jerry's memory can be made to Hospice of St. Lawrence Valley.
There will be no public calling hours. A private graveside ceremony will be held at the discretion of the family in Lake Titus, NY.
Arrangements are under the care and guidance of the Donaldson Funeral Home, Massena, where friends may share memories and offer condolences online at www.donaldsonfh.com.