Christine Benson

Christine Benson, 62, of Worcester, passed away at Mass General Hospital in Boston, on Tuesday, April, 14, 2015 surrounded by her loving family, after a brief period of declining health. Christine was born in Harlem, New York, New York to the late Ralph and Mary (Bryant) Benson. She was raised in Brooklyn, New York, New York, where she attended and graduated from Prospect High School. Christine moved to Worcester, where she has resided for the past thirty years. Christine worked for many years as a counselor for the United States Department of Labor Job Corp, where she was affectionately known by all the young residents as "Ms. B". There she inspired and guided many young adults, to make good decisions, and helped them build successful futures. Christine also worked for Norton Company in Worcester and was a foster parent. Christine was a kind-hearted, generous, and caring soul, who always had an open-door for anyone in need. She was known by friends, family, and loved ones, for her great cooking, especially her Sunday dinners, and her warm hospitality. Christine truly touched the lives of all she came in contact with. She also enjoyed playing cards, watching television, and listening to music, but Christine most enjoyed spending time with her friends and family. Christine will be dearly missed by everyone that was fortunate enough to have had the opportunity to get to know her. Christine is Survived by her son, Damien J. Benson of Worcester; her grandson, Damien J. Benson, Jr.; her brother, Gary Benson of Boston; her nephews Demalcom Cyrus, John and Rashaun Benson, and Vashaun and Vamik Benson; a niece, Jennifer Benson; many cousins, and countless others that consider her as family. In addition to her parents Ralph and Mary, Christine was predeceased by her sister, Melody (Benson) Koukou; brother, Ralph Benson, Jr.; and nephew, Weldon Benson. Friends and relatives are invited to calling hours, Friday, April 24th from 5:00 pm to 7:00 pm in the Mercadante Funeral Home & Chapel, 370 Plantation St., Worcester, MA 01605. A memorial service will be celebrated subsequently at 7:00 pm. Burial will be held privately at a later time. In lieu of flowers memorial donations can be made in her honor to Friendly House Inc, 36 Wall Street, Worcester, MA 01604, Attention: Business Office. http://www.friendlyhousema.org/