Nancy Jo Benjamin

1942 - 2020

Nancy Jo Benjamin

May 4, 1942 - Dec. 23, 2020

SOUTH BEND, IN -

Nancy Jo Benjamin, 78, of South Bend passed away on Wednesday, December 23, 2020 at her home surrounded by her loving family. She was born May 4, 1942 in South Bend to the late Charles Coughlin and Nancy (Toney) DeWispelaere. On March 4, 1961 in South Bend, she married Ronald Benjamin, who survives.

Also surviving are her daughters, Jackie (Darren) Stout of South Bend, IN and Cynthia Wheeler of Granger, IN; five grandchildren, Aron (Cally) Horvath, Erin (Theodore) Moskwinski, Benjamin (Abigail Diamond) Horvath, Jack Wheeler, and Cole Wheeler; six great-grandchildren, Daegan, Aly, Creegan, Maddie Grace, Will, and Mia; and two brothers, James Coughlin of Scotts, MI and Michael (Ann) Coughlin of Granger, IN. In addition to her parents, Nancy is preceded in death by her sister, Carol Drzewiecki; and brother, Daniel Coughlin.

Nancy was the pillar of her family, the social director and the tie that bound the immediate and extended family. She was a career woman, and proudly retired from the University of Notre Dame after a decades long career. She made rooting for Notre Dame football a family tradition, and football parties in her basement were renowned. Nancy loved to be on the beach and made many trips to Florida and other spots near the water. She enjoyed walking along the beach and listening to the sound of the ocean. She loved dancing to old-time rock and roll songs, especially Elvis Presley. She made sure her family knew all the classics and loved getting dressed up to go to the many weddings, birthday parties and celebrations over the years.

She was a dedicated mom, beloved grandma, and adored great-grandmother. She gave all her attention and energy to her family. Despite having to balance work and family when her kids were growing up, she never missed one of their events. This dedication continued with her grandchildren and even great-grandchildren. She gave endless time and energy to each. She shared many special days with them, including afternoon walks on Notre Dame's campus, family trips, swimming, sledding, and playing in the backyard. She loved family trips, including the family's annual trip to Indiana Beach and various campgrounds across Indiana and Michigan. The walls of her home are filled with pictures of her kids, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren, in which she took much pride.

A Memorial visitation for Nancy will be held on Tuesday, December 29, 2020 from 4-7 PM at Palmer Funeral Home-Hickey Chapel, 17131 Cleveland Rd., South Bend, IN 46635. Due to COVID-19 restrictions, a private Memorial service will be held by her family at St. Paul's Lutheran Church.

Contributions in memory of Nancy may be given to the Center for Hospice, 501 Comfort Pl., Mishawaka, IN 46545.

Online condolences can be sent to Nancy's family at www.palmerfuneralhomes.com.