Rochelle Grace "Baker" Benson

Rochelle Grace Baker Benson, 89, passed away peacefully at her home in Pinetops, NC, on Friday, September 5, 2025. Born on May 12, 1936, in Wilson County, Shelly was the daughter of the late Selby and Carolina Owens Baker. She was the sixth of thirteen children.

In 1952, Shelly married the love of her life, Bobby Gray Benson. They shared 53 devoted years of marriage until his passing in 2005. Together, they raised three children: the late Robert "Rob" Selby Benson, Tammy Benson Long, and Martin "Marty" Gray Benson.

Shelly was a woman of deep faith, endless compassion, and boundless love for her family and friends. Known for her infectious smile and wonderful sense of humor, she brought warmth and light to everyone she met. A faithful member of Faith Baptist Church, she found great joy in Bible study, worship, and fellowship.

Throughout her life, Shelly worked with several companies, including Thermatics, Tip Top Bakery, and eventually retired from Ilco Unican. An avid reader, she was rarely without a book in hand-often a Bible-and was always eager to share her thoughts and reflections with those she loved. Later in life Shelly began quilting and her creations will be cherished for generations to come.

Shelly found her greatest joy in time spent with family. She adored her role as wife, mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, aunt, and friend. She also had a lifelong love of flowers and bright colors, especially purple.

In addition to her parents, husband, and 11 siblings, Shelly was preceded in death by her beloved son Rob and his wife, Wanda.

She is survived by her loving children, Tammy and Marty (Lynn); her brother, Connor (Dottie); and her cherished grandchildren: Caroline (Jameson), Rachel (Dennis), Rebecca (Alan), Neal (Megan), Caleb (Emily), Lillie (Lee), and Gray, along with 10 great-grandchildren. She also leaves behind many nieces, nephews, cousins, and dear friends.

The family extends special thanks to all who have offered support over the years, with heartfelt gratitude to the caregivers of Home Health and Hospice for their compassionate care in recent days.

A visitation will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Wednesday, September 10, 2025, at Faith Baptist Church, followed by a celebration of Shelly's life. In her honor, guests are invited to wear bright colors-especially purple-which she loved so much.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to:

Faith Baptist Church

4590 Faith Baptist Church Rd.

Pinetops, NC 27864

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