South Royalton, VT – Annie Lyman Benson, a beloved mother, grandmother, sister, and friend, peacefully departed from this world on July 26, 2026, at the age of 88. Born on June 29, 1938, in Sharon, VT, Annie was the cherished daughter of Albert P. and Margaret (Miller) Lyman. Her gentle spirit and warm smile touched the lives of many, and her legacy of kindness and love will be remembered for generations to come.
Annie’s early education took place in a quaint one-room schoolhouse on Royalton Hill. She graduated from South Royalton High School in 1956, a testament to her dedication and determination. On April 26, 1957, she married the love of her life, C. Stanley Benson, with whom she shared many beautiful years until his passing on February 7, 1980.
Throughout her life, Annie, excelled in various roles, from her early work at the Hot Vine Tea Room in Royalton and VanRaults in Randolph to her later years at South Royalton Hot Lunch. She found a fulfilling career at G.W. Plastics in Bethel before eventually retiring from LaValley Building Supply in Lebanon, NH.
Annie was a women of many talents and interests. She had a passion for sewing, knitting, and crocheting, creating countless cherished items for her family and friends. Her love for gardening was evident in vibrant blooms that surrounded her home. Annie found joy in travel and camping, especially during her cherished August trips to Abel Camp Ground with her daughter Brenda, sister Vivian, niece and friends.
Her home was a place of warmth and hospitality, where children were always welcomed with open arms. Annie’s compassion and willingness to help others were evident in every smile she shared and every kindness she extended. Her gentle demeanor and loving nature left a lasting impression on all who knew her.
Annie is survived by her loving family: daughter Brenda Hoyt (Michael Barnaby), son Gordon Benson (Barbara), son Larry Benson (Kathy), and daughter Gloria Impey (Shaun). She was a proud grandmother to nine grandchildren and a doting great-grandmother to nine great-grandchildren. Annie is also survived by her brother David Lyman of Royalton, sisters Lois Darling of Royalton, Vivian Pratt of Stockbridge, VT, Velma Plouffe of Richmond, VT, and sister-in-law Patricia Lyman of Bethel, VT, as well as numerous nieces, nephews, and cousins. Her close neighbor friend, Jeanie Jones (Bruce), also holds a special place in her heart.
Predeceased by her parents, husband Stanley on February 7th, 1980, grandson Bruce Impey, and brother Charles Lyman, Annie’s memory will continue to live on in the hearts of her family and friends.
Calling Hours to celebrate Annie’s life will be held on August 21, 2026 from 6-8pm at the Boardway and Cilley Funeral Home, 300 VT RTE 110, Chelsea, VT. A graveside service will be held on August 22, 2026 at 1:00pm at River View Cemetery in South Royalton, VT. In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests that donations be made in Annie’s memory to the Royalton Senior Center, P.O. Box 344, South Royalton, VT 05068, or the Royalton Congregational Church, P.O. Box 804, South Royalton, VT 05068.
The Benson family extends their deepest gratitude to Bayada Hospice (Danielle, Betty, and MaryLou) for their unwavering support and compassionate care during Annie’s final days. Annie’s life was a blessing, her memory a treasure, and she will be dearly missed by all who had the privilege of knowing her.
A private message of sympathy for her family can be shared at www.boardwayandcilley.com.
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