Paula L. Benson, age 72 of Stanwood, passed away Wednesday, July 04, 2018 after a brief battle with stage four cancer; she was at home surrounded by her beloved family. She was born April 25, 1946 in Grand Rapids the daughter of Edward J. and Vivian I. (Empie) Ryan. She married Anthony "Jack" Benson in Big Rapids on August 29, 1964 and together they made their home in the Stanwood area. Paula, who was a true country woman and wife, enjoyed her flowers, gardening and canning. She loved old style cooking, making quilts, afghans and throughout the years had raised and cared for over forty goats. Paula is survived by her husband Jack Benson of Stanwood; nine children, Bonnie Lou Neal of Grand Rapids, Wayne Benson of Big Rapids, Sven Benson of Morley, Jolene (Donnie) Jones of Virginia, Stosh (Deborah) Benson of Chippewa Lake, Amanda (Azfer) Ansari of Minnesota, Wayland Benson of Virginia, Wyatt Benson of Stanwood, Conway Benson of Colorado; 11 grandchildren and one great-granddaughter. Also surviving are sisters, Bette Lou Moulter of Grand Rapids, Brenda Ryan of Stanwood; brother, Joe (Trulaine) Ryan of Greenville, Step-sister, Barbara Hoaglin of Greenville many nieces, nephews and cousins. Paula was preceded in death by her parents and a step-brother, Charles Ryan. Funeral services will take place 1:00 p.m. Saturday, July 7, 2018 at the Daggett-Gilbert Funeral Home in Big Rapids with Pastor David Bongard officiating. The family will greet friends on Friday, July 6th from 6:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. Paula will be laid to rest at the Stanwood Cemetery. Memorial contributions in Paulas memory will be accepted by the family. Share a memory or condolence with the family at www.daggettgilbertfuneralhome.com Funeral Service Saturday, July 7, 2018 01:00 PM Daggett-Gilbert Funeral Home 13985 Northland Drive Big Rapids,MI 49307