Benita Jo (Baker) Rich

Benita Jo Rich, 73, passed away on Monday, May 20, 2024, surrounded by her loving family following a valiant three-year battle with lung cancer.  She was born in Dallas, TX on March 19, 1951, to her parents, Joe and Kathleen Gothard Baker and was a member of the Cottonwood Baptist Church.

From an early age, it was evident that Benita possessed a beautiful singing voice. As a teenager, she pursued her passion for music, taking years of piano and voice lessons with aspirations of becoming a lounge singer.

In addition to her musical talents, Benita had a creative spirit, making flower arrangements and exploring the intricate world of rocks and gems, but it was her passion for shopping that consumed much of her time.  The “GW” (Goodwill) and many other thrift stores became a second home to Benita and the thrill of hunting for hidden treasures provided her excitement.  Known for her generosity and selflessness, the only thing more exciting than finding that unique item was giving it to someone else. Benita's heart was as vast as her collection of thrifted treasures and her life was a testament to the power of kindness and empathy.

Benita's compassion extended beyond her human loved ones to her “fur friends,” for whom she held a special place in her heart.  Feeding strays from the dog food she kept in her trunk was her way to give love to God’s less fortunate creatures.

Despite facing numerous medical challenges throughout her life, Benita never wavered in her resolve to live each day to the fullest. Her love for her family knew no bounds. Her sons, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren were the center of her world, and she cherished every moment spent with them.

Along with her parents, she is preceded in death by her stepdaughter, Michelle Rich.

She leaves behind her husband of thirty-one years, Donald W. Rich, who lovingly cared for her during her illness; two sons, Leo Chandler, Jr. (Jana) of Crossett, AR, and Jody Leo Chandler (Elissa) of Bryant, AR; and one stepson, James Rich (Paula); along with one sister, Kathy Baker Mackey (Denny) of Ennis, TX; one brother, Joe B. Baker, Jr. (Marilyn) of Sulphur Springs, TX; three grandchildren, Mason, CT, and Jilliann Chandler; three great-grandchildren, Ian, Alexander, and Cade; and a host of nieces, nephews, and cousins.

Benita’s family will hold a Memorial Service at 11:00 a.m., on June 8th, at the Cottonwood Baptist Church in Scurry, TX.

Visitation will be from 10:00-11:00 a.m., prior to the service.

Local services entrusted to Medders Funeral Home of Crossett.

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