Michelle Marie (Taylor) Benson

Michelle Marie Benson June 4, 1968 – July 2, 2025

Michelle Marie Benson, age 57, passed away on July 2, 2025, after a courageously fought battle with breast cancer. She left this world surrounded by her devoted family and closest friends—exactly as she lived her life: with elegance, strength, and unshakable love.

Michelle was a force of nature—determined, brave, and beautiful inside and out.

Michelle was preceded in death by her beloved mother, Sandy Taylor, and her cherished son, Adam Bear. She is survived by her husband, David Benson; her children, who were the center of her world: Connor Bear (daughter Adalynn) and his girlfriend, Angel Smith; Kevin Bear and his fiancée, Lindsey Santimarino; and daughter Lauren Benson. She is also survived by her father, Dennis Taylor; her brother, Chad Taylor; and Chad’s children, Brooke and Chase.

Her children were her proudest accomplishments. She was their biggest cheerleader—always lifting them up with boundless love and an unwavering belief in who they were and who they could become.

Michelle shared a lifelong, unbreakable bond with her best friend of over 50 years, Jen Geer. Their friendship was a constant in Michelle’s life—full of laughter, support, and unconditional love.

Professionally, Michelle spent over 30 years working in customer operations at GOJO Industries. She brought a unique combination of operational insight, strategic thinking, and trusted relationships throughout the organization. She loved her GOJO family, and cherished her close friendships with Todd, Jodi and Stephanie.

Michelle loved her dogs, Tito and Benny. They brought her daily joy and never left her side—especially Benny, who stopped going on walks when Michelle could no longer take them.

One of Michelle’s happiest places was Hilton Head Island, where she cherished the annual family vacations that became a beloved tradition. She found so much joy in the simple pleasures—sun-filled days at the beach, relaxing by the pool, bike rides, and unforgettable dinners together. Those trips were filled with laughter, connection, and memories she held close to her heart. For Michelle, Hilton Head wasn’t just a destination—it was a place where love, family, and joy came together.

To know Michelle was to know true loyalty. She was a fiercely devoted friend, a natural problem solver, and someone whose first instinct was always to help. She led with “yes,” found a way to make it work, and brought light and laughter into the lives of those around her. Her sense of humor was infectious, her determination unmatched, and her generosity boundless. Michelle had a gift for making people feel seen, heard, and held—whether through laughter, encouragement, or just showing up when it mattered most. She could do anything she set her mind to, and she did so with humility, courage, and an open heart.

If you would like to honor Michelle’s legacy, please consider a donation to our VeloSano fundraising page, CLICK HERE where 100% of the proceeds go directly to cancer research at the Cleveland Clinic.

Michelle’s legacy will live on in the lives she touched, the love she gave so freely, and the family she built with so much pride. She will be deeply missed and forever loved.

We will honor the memory of Michelle with a memorial service at Temple Israel, 91 Springside Dr., Akron, OH 44333, at 1:00 p.m. on Friday, July 11.