Kathryn Williamson Benton

Kathryn Regan Williamson Benton, of Ansonville, passed away on Tuesday, November 23, 2021, at home, surrounded by her dogs, Rocky, Josie, and Happy; her cat, Trouble; and her bird, Sunshine.

Kathryn’s husband, Herbert Wilson Benton, Jr. had gone on ahead on August 30, 2021, so he was waiting for her.

Her parents were the late Katie Lee Regan and Joseph Manoe Williamson, Jr. of Robeson, Co., N.C. Born on July 4, 1950, Kathryn graduated from Littlefield High School, Lumberton, N.C. She attended UNC Greensboro and graduated from Fayetteville State University, Fayetteville, N.C. with degrees in Forestry and Business.

She was a Forest Ranger in Durham County for a few years before becoming employed by Perdue Farms and later by Smithfield Foods, where she worked until her retirement.

Kathryn is survived by her sister, Jane Williamson of Selma, N.C., and her niece, Diana Wilson of Erwin, N.C., who loved her dearly. There is a sister, Susan Williamson of St. Pauls, N.C. a brother, Joseph Williamson III of Robeson Co., N.C., and a niece, Elizabeth Mitchell of Pine Level, N.C., none of whom had been in touch with her for years. Her husband, Herby, left a family whom she loved very much: her sister-in-law, Carol Black of Ansonville and her family, her brother-in-law, Walter Benton of Lilesville and his family, and especially her step sons, Larry (Jessica) Benton of Wadesboro. N.C., and Christopher Benton of Lilesville. N.C. and their children, the grandchildren, who all meant so much to her. She felt especially close to Cameron.

Kathryn was a talented and creative person who loved her home and yard. She loved animals and always surrounded herself with their love, heartbeats and companionship. She appreciated and collected pottery. She was a practical person who loved the Earth and believed in taking good care of it. She loved the woods and the water and those who live there, too. She was a good listener and offered sound advice. She enjoyed having everyone come to visit and break bread together. Until his death, she and Herby spent most of their free time together and enjoyed lake outings, road trips, visiting family, searching for collectibles and going out to eat. They loved and valued most having gatherings with family and friends.

Because of the resurgence of Covid-19 cases, and the fact that there remain so many people who are not yet vaccinated, a celebration of Kathryn’s and Herbert’s lives will be held at a later date, to be determined.

The arrangements are in the care of Leavitt Funeral Home of Wadesboro, N.C. Online condolences may be made at www.leavittfh.com.