Barbara Todd Benson, a cherished member of the Santa Cruz community, passed away on July 17, 2025, following a two-year battle with cancer. Born in 1948 in Passaic, New Jersey, she moved with her family to Santa Cruz, California, in 1953. Her journey through life was marked by creativity, resilience, and a deep love for her family.
Barbara was a graduate of Soquel High School, class of 1967, and later attended Heald’s Business College. She made Santa Rosa her home in 1989, where she continued to nurture her passion for crafting. Those close to her remember her as an incredibly talented individual who loved to sew, quilt, crochet, and garden. Her creations are treasured by family and friends, serving as lasting reminders of her artistic spirit.
She is survived by her sons, Jeff Benson and his wife Patti, residing in Henderson, Nevada, and Gary Benson and his wife Shannon, who live in Fresno, California. Barbara also leaves behind her grandchildren, Nicole, Andrew, Lauren, Scott, and Dean, as well as her great-grandson, Lukas. Her legacy includes her sisters, Lauri and her husband Greg of Portland, Oregon, and Nancy and her husband Don of Watsonville, California, along with numerous nephews, nieces, and cousins.
Despite facing multiple health challenges, Barbara maintained a positive outlook and a quirky sense of humor. Her family recalls her strength and tenacity, never once complaining throughout her illness.
Private family services are scheduled to take place on what would have been her birthday in Santa Cruz, where her loved ones will gather to celebrate her life. Barbara Todd Benson will be forever loved and missed by all who knew her.
In lieu of flowers, her family encourages those who wish to honor her memory to consider planting a living memorial.
