Edith Diane Benard

(Diane, Dee, Mom, Ma, Gamma, Gams, Grandma, Gibson)

Edith Diane Benard, 58, went home to be with her Lord and Savior on April 18, 2025, at 2:31 p.m. at her home in Battle Creek, Michigan.

Her celebration of life service will be held on Friday, April 25, 2025, at 1:00 p.m. at Battle Creek Community Church, located at 1021 Wagner Dr, Battle Creek, MI 49017. Visitation for friends will be from 12:00 p.m. to 1:00 p.m.

Edith attended Gary Roosevelt “The Velt” High School, studied nursing at Minneapolis College, and pursued Communication Studies at Hennepin Technical College, where she also participated in Student Life and Career Development. Over the years, she worked in many capacities, including as a home health aide, daycare teacher at ABC Infant Care, patient advocate at Inasmuch House, and in numerous other roles where she touched and helped countless lives.

In her downtime, Edith loved to laugh, talk, and spend quality time with family and friends. She cherished attending birthday celebrations, spending time with the Lord, and attending church. Whether running errands with family or sharing joyful moments, she was always surrounded by love.

Edith was truly an angel on Earth. She radiated joy, patience, and forgiveness. Her infectious laughter and deep compassion were always felt by those who knew her. She had a kind and unforgettable voice, and every day she took time to ask how others were doing. Edith’s love for the Lord was evident in her daily prayers and conversations with Him. She kept the family connected and informed, always ensuring that no one was forgotten.

Born on June 6, 1966, in Gary, Indiana, Edith was preceded in death by her loving parents, Clayborn and Annie Mae Benard; her Aunt Willa Parker; her brother George Benard; her cousin Corine Young; and several other family members and friends. She was also preceded by her beloved dogs, Midnight, Lilli, and Luke.

Edith is survived by her son, Raymond Lunn Jr.; daughters Belinda Benard and Bianca Broughton; grandchildren Azariea Benard and Malachi McLiechey; great-granddaughter Alizah Benard; her sister, Shelia Benard; bonus sister Janice Clinton; and bonus son-in-love, Antwaun Broughton.

Edith will be remembered for her resilience, unwavering faith, childlike innocence, and her sweet voice that will forever echo in our hearts. She often expressed how proud she was of her children and grandchildren, and she celebrated every accomplishment with love. Her signature phrases—"Hey babyyyy," "I love you, see ya, see ya, *giggles* see ya, see ya," and "give me a kiss"—will live on in the memories of those who were fortunate enough to hear them.

**Family and friends are invited to join us in celebrating Edith’s life at Battle Creek Community Church on April 25, 2025, at 1:00 p.m.** For more information or to send condolences, please visit [our GoFundMe page]

Personal messages for Edith's family may be shared here, at www.farleyestesdowdle.com.