Leah Ann Benson

Leah Benson, 67, passed away on February 23, 2026, at Ava's Hospice House in Sioux Falls, South Dakota, leaving behind a legacy of resilience, friendship, and deep love for her family and community. She spent much of her life in Brookings County, where she built lasting relationships and raised her two children, Rose and Benjamin, who were the center of her world.

She was born at St. Luke's Hospital in Cedar Rapids, Iowa, on October 31, 1958, to Jan and Elva Jean Marg. The youngest of two children, Leah graduated from Waseca High School one year early, in 1976. She moved to Walla Walla, Washington in 1979 to pursue her degree and see more of the world after spending a year in Tennessee with friends. In Walla Walla, WA, she had her daughter, Rose. They lived there together for several months before moving back the Midwest, settling down in Brookings, South Dakota, where Leah pursued a four-year degree in both animal husbandry and agronomy at SDSU.

As she was finishing this degree, she had her son, Benjamin. After a short time as a stay-at-home mother, she established herself as an entrepreneur, selling farm goods (including eggs and other canned foods) and spending her days tending to people's homes for over 20 years.

In 2000, Leah made the courageous decision to begin a new chapter in her life. She moved to Normandy Village, embracing independence and supporting herself through her work as a housekeeper. Though life was often challenging, she found joy in her friendships and became an active and familiar presence in her community. Over the next decade, she formed many meaningful connections and shared laughter, stories, and companionship with those around her.

As health challenges emerged due to a rare condition, Charcot-Marie-Tooth syndrome, Leah gradually adjusted her lifestyle. She spent time helping manage a household for a longtime friend and later lived independently in several apartments, continuing to build friendships wherever she went. Leah had a gift for conversation and connection-whether through long phone calls, computer chats, or time spent together in person-and she was known for her generosity and loyalty to those she cared about.

Leah worked hard throughout her life, dedicating nearly 40 years to a variety of jobs before being forced into retirement when complications from her illness affected her mobility. When her health allowed, she enjoyed gardening, tending to plants, and staying connected with friends and family.

Above all, Leah was a devoted mother and a cherished friend to many. Her strength, humor, and determination left a lasting impression on everyone fortunate enough to know her.

She is survived by 4 grandchildren, two children, Rose Eversgerd and Benjamin Benson (Cassie Benson) her older sister, Andrea Marg-Costopoulos (Dr. Mark Costopoulos). She was preceded in death by her parents, Jan and Elva Jean Marg.

Leah will be remembered for her perseverance, her independent spirit, and the love she shared so freely with others. No services are planned at this time. Rude's Funeral Home is assisting the family with the arrangements.