John L. "Lee" Benson

John "Lee" L. Benson, 77, of Shrewsbury and formerly of Marlborough, passed away peacefully on Wednesday, February 18, 2026 at his home, surrounded by his loving family.

Lee was born in Marlborough, MA, the son of the late Roy V. "Benny" and Mary M. "Peggy" (Gately) Benson.

He was predeceased by his much-loved wife of 38 years, Jean A. (Savinen) Benson in February, 2009 and a brother, Kevin C. Benson.

A graduate of Marlborough High School Class of 1966, Lee was one of the top distance runners in Central Mass of his era and during his career at MHS he established the school records in the mile, half-mile and the cross-country course record. Lee was a proud member of the Fenwick Society (Pi Sigma Upsilon) at Fitchburg State College where he received his undergraduate degree in education. He later received his Master's degree from Worcester State College.

Lee was a middle school science teacher in Hudson for 13 years, teaching at both JFK and Forest Avenue Middle Schools before transitioning to Digital Equipment Corporation as a Human Resources Manager.

Lee is survived by his son Jay L. Benson and his wife Gina of Newton, his daughter, Jill A. Jackson and her husband Rob of Marlborough, 3 grandchildren, Colin, Clare and Brielle, 3 brothers, Gary Benson and his wife Janet of Centerville, Roy Benson and his wife Ann of N. Providence, RI, Drew Benson and his wife Emma of Grafton, a sister, Laurie Benson and her soulmate Charlie Darling of Worcester as well as several nieces, nephews, extended family and friends.

From an early age, Lee was fascinated with art and that passion continued throughout his life. He was elected to Artist Member status at the North Shore Arts Association in Gloucester, MA where he served on the Board of Directors. He was also a past member of the Northborough Arts Guild and the Shrewsbury Art Association. Many of Lee's family members and friends were blessed to have his paintings proudly displayed in their homes and, after his successful treatment for leukemia in 2000, he gave back in the best way he knew how. Several of his paintings were chosen for Dana Farber's Christmas cards and candles. Lee was thankful for the exceptional care he received and felt grateful that he could repay it in a meaningful way.

Lee really loved to golf, whether with the Midland League at Juniper Hills, Cape Cod golf outings with his longtime Marlborough friends, Fenwick golf outings, and especially rounds with his son, son-in-law, grandson and granddaughter. He had a great swing and amassed an enviable collection of equipment in his eternal quest to remedy the "wrong clubs" issue.

More than anything, family and friends mattered to Lee. Summers in Pigeon Cove, Rockport, Disney vacations, Labor Day parades, dining out with family and friends, or casual get-togethers always produced the same result; plenty of smiles, laughter, and stories for future recounting. His children and later, his grandchildren, gave him innumerable opportunities to celebrate and take pride in their sharp minds, compassionate hearts, and talents in anything that they chose to undertake. His attendance on the sidelines of sporting events, and in the audience to cheer on his family, was a constant and reliable presence.

Lee will be remembered for his big heart, quick wit, passionate opinions, and unwavering devotion to those that he loved. His fashion sense and affinity for music, in particular The Beatles and other bands of the British Invasion, also helped to define Lee. He was a self-taught guitarist and there was always an acoustic guitar at the ready in his home.

In the months before he passed, Lee expressed how fortunate he was to have lived his life. The only thing that could have made it better would have been the opportunity to spend more time with those he loved. He shared that he found the song "The End of the End", by Paul McCartney, to be a good reflection of his feelings. It says "At the end of the end, it's the start of a journey to a much better place, and this wasn't bad, so a much better place would have to be special, no need to be sad."

He will be deeply missed by all of those who loved him.

Following cremation, Visitation will be held on Sunday, March 1, 2026 from 2-5 pm in the Short & Rowe Funeral Home, 95 W. Main St., Marlborough, MA.

A private Burial will be held at a later date.

In lieu of flowers, gifts may be made to Dana-Farber Cancer Institute in Lee's memory. Donations can be made at jimmyfund.org/gift