Jodi Beth Benedict

In Loving Memory Jodi B. Benedict - Paris, MI
Jodi B. Benedict (Schultz), a near lifetime resident of Paris, Michigan, passed away at home with her family by her side on Wednesday, July 24, 2024 at the age of 68.
Born on Friday, July 13, 1956, in Big Rapids, Michigan, Jodi was the eldest child of Ron and Bess Schultz. Affectionately nicknamed "Queenie" by her mother, Jodi was a natural-born leader from the very beginning, as she was all her life.
Jodi's confident, fun-loving, and curious nature drove her passions for learning new things and helping others. She had a big heart and thrived in moments of engaging with others, touching many lives in diverse and unique ways. Jodi was very much a "people person" and would often take to others in a caring way and adopt them as if they were family. She advocated for and cheered on many, family members and friends alike, over the years of her life. Her fearless approach in life led her to experience a wide range of activities and projects. Particularly in the last few years, months, and weeks of her life, she was very dedicated to efforts of researching and campaigning with local friends and fellow farmers in preventing Gotion from coming into Mecosta County. She always supported and fought resolutely for the things she believed were right.
Throughout her life, Jodi worked in various jobs, but two were particularly significant. Her first job at Chicken Joy introduced her to her teenage sweetheart, Gary Benedict, who quickly became her lifelong partner. Together, while raising their family, Jodi and Gary owned and operated Judson's True Value Hardware in downtown Big Rapids for many years. Following their retirement from the hardware store, Jodi pursued her technological interests and furthered her education by obtaining an associate's degree in computer science from Baker College. However, she did not stop there. She dabbled over the years in web-design, graphic design, photography and other technology-based interests and pursuits.
Jodi lived deeply and authentically and was always off to where adventure took her. She traveled around the country and internationally, enjoyed day-trips and road trips, and camping with family. She also loved taking trips to the casino with her dad and sisters over the years. Even at home, Jodi delved into artistic projects and activities that were her creative outlets, from her ceramics business, jewelry making, sewing circle, paper crafting to drawing and painting. She also enjoyed the adventures in homemaking and homesteading. Innovative in her trade, she focused on learning self-sufficiency and preparedness in the later years of her life, and taught herself about raising chickens, gardening, preserving and canning foods, and repurposing old things into new. She also loved cats and enjoyed the company of many kitties over the years. Jodi was content being a homebody just as much as being out on an adventure. She loved life and the experiences it brought.
Jodi leaves behind a large legacy of love. She is survived by her husband of 51 years, Gary Benedict; her children, Amy Eluk of Oregon and Jake (Stacy) Benedict of California; her mother, Bess Schultz; her younger siblings, Jill Bishop, Joel (Deserae) Schultz, Jeri (Tom) Battle and Jeff (Carmen) Schultz; her brothers-in-law Robert (Martha) Benedict and Steve Benedict; her devoted feline friends, Opal and Patches; as well as a multitude of aunts, uncles, nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends who loved her like family. Jodi is preceded in death by her father, Ron Schultz, brother-in-law Walter Bishop, and nephew Joel David Schultz II.
Jodi's warmth, enthusiasm, and willingness to embrace new experiences will be deeply missed by all who knew her. She lived and loved deeply, and was well-loved in return.
A graveside service will be held on Saturday, August 17, 2024 at 10 AM at Green Charter Township's West Cemetery, 20715 19 Mile Road, Big Rapids, Michigan 49307. Family and friends are welcome to join Jodi's family for the final committal.
Care and arrangements are entrusted to the Mohnke Janowicz Funeral Home in Big Rapids.