Nikki Lee Benson

FUNERAL HOME

Neptune Society - Walnut Creek

1855 Olympic Boulevard

Walnut Creek, California

Nikki Benson Obituary

Nikki Lee Noble Benson, born on March 16, 1944, in Stockton, California, passed away in her home on January 11, 2025 after a courageous battle with cancer. She was 80 years old.

Nikki was preceded in death by the love of her life, her beloved husband, Samuel George Benson, MD, PhD, of Malvern, Arkansas. She is lovingly remembered by her three children: Rick Pokrajen-Harmon of Chiang Mai, Thailand; Michelle Hofacre of Fairfield; and Mary Ellen Field of Napa. Nikki also leaves behind two cherished grandchildren: Ashley Hansen of Napa and Van Hansen of Sacramento.

A true adventurer at heart, Nikki approached life with an unyielding curiosity and a passion for discovery. Her love for travel took her across the globe as she embraced new cultures and experiences with enthusiasm. Nikki also had a special appreciation for international cuisines and found immense joy in exploring foods from all corners of the world. Closer to home, she delighted in the thrill of rummage sales and thrift stores, uncovering hidden treasures that brought her happiness and connection to her community.

Nikki's adventurous spirit and zest for life left a lasting impression on everyone who crossed her path. Her memory will forever serve as a reminder to live boldly and savor the beauty in life's journey. May those who knew her find comfort in the legacy of warmth and courage she leaves behind.

To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.

Published by Stocktonia on Jan. 21, 2025.

Memories and Condolences
for Nikki Benson

14 Entries

Pat

February 26, 2025

nikki and i have been friends for 40+ yrs. we worked together at a psch facility in Walnut creek Ca. boundless energy.cute as they come. When I was quit ill in the 80's I had lost a lot of blood buy Nikki organized a blood drive just for me at our hospital.......she was full of love for her friends and family. so many laughs ...tiny but she could eat anyone under the table and a garage sale was her fun on Saturdays...I will miss you my friend.......fear not because you have so many wonderful friends up there waiting to see you again.

Shrlley

February 15, 2025

Mamma, you've been my absolute best friend for the last10 years. I cherish how many things we did and how many loving conversations we had. I love that we were all able to spend your last Christmas together and I know how important that was to you. I still see a sale at Safeway or a new Netflix documentary that's coming out and want to immediately call you. I know our relationship was complete and without the static that can occur in everyone's life at times. My only comfort (and there are few) is that our relationship is and always will be deeper than a lot of people can claim. As you have said to me a hundred times...I love you too the moon. I will never be the same. I so miss you Mommy.

Alan McClain

February 15, 2025

For the little time that I knew you Mrs. Benson it was such a pleasure. Your kindness along with your sweet spirit was such a joy. You will be truly missed.

Marion Gibson

February 11, 2025

I offer condolences to Nikki's family and friends. She was the wife of the late Dr. Samuel Benson, from Perla, Arkansas. She proudly served on the Henson-Benson Foundation Board. The Foundation was founded by Dr. Benson. I was introduced to Nikki when she attended the 2012 reunion of the former Malvern 'Colored' schools with her husband. I am attaching a 2012 picture of them.
Your family is in my prayers. She will be greatly missed.
Marion Gibson, Board President
Henson Benson Foundation
Perla, Arkansas

Shelley

February 8, 2025

Mamma, if think about you every hour of every day. Can you hear me talking to you? The sun has gone down for me right now and I miss you so much. Our daily phone calls have been such an ingrained thing that I still want to call you when I see or hear something that we would have talked about. It's a confusing and painful time for all of us that love you. We will all miss you deeply. You are still my best friend.

Rick Pokrajen-Harmon

February 7, 2025

Mom making a generous donation to The Gate Theatre in Chiang Mai, Thailand.

Shirley Trotter Nagy

January 24, 2025

What a delightful gal she was! I really appreciated her great sense of humor. Rest in peace!

Laurine McCaw Nee Pasos

January 24, 2025

I recently found a picture I took of Nikki and some other classmates. She was such a loving, caring person who will be forever missed.

Sandie Allen Smith

January 23, 2025

Sending my love and support to your family. Nikki and I were school friends in same graduating class. We helped each other as new moms and I have such fond memories of her.

Candy Simbalenko, RN (nee: Grewatz)

January 22, 2025

I am saddened to learn of Nikki's passing. Though it's been many years since I have seen her, I often think of her. She was in the same nursing class that I attended, and we graduated together. That was in 1970. She was so full of life in those days of training, and I truly enjoyed knowing her. My deepest condolences to her family.

Neptune Society of Northern California

January 21, 2025

Offering our deepest condolences during this difficult time.

Afan

January 21, 2025

In Loving Memory of a Remarkable Soul

Losing you is a deep pain, but I will forever cherish the moments we shared, especially the times we traveled together. Your strength, kindness, and love will always remain in my heart. You were not just a mother-in-law, but a true friend and guide. I will carry your memory with me, now and always.

Rest in peace, dear Mom Nikki . You will be deeply missed.