Edward Ray Benson

 June 1, 1945 – November 20, 2025
Nampa, Idaho

Life & Legacy
Edward Ray Benson passed away peacefully at his home on November 20, 2025, surrounded by love. He was a devoted husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather, and friend—remembered by all for his warmth, humility, and kindness.

Born on June 1, 1945, in Oklahoma City, Oklahoma, to Henry Edward Benson and Betty Ray Sox, Ed spent his youth on the family farm west of Blackfoot, Idaho. Life on the desert was rugged—without running water and powered only by a generator—but it was rich in lessons of hard work, family unity, and gratitude. There was always good food, laughter, and plenty of chores to keep him busy.

Ed graduated from Snake River High School in 1963 and went on to earn his Associate Degree in Electronics Technology from Idaho State University Vo-Tech. He began his career at Basic American Foods, where he dedicated 40 years of service before retiring in 2009.

Family & Devotion
On August 25, 1967, Ed married the love of his life, Joanne Eldredge. Their marriage was later solemnized in the Idaho Falls Temple, sealing their eternal bond. For 57 beautiful years, they built a home filled with laughter, faith, and enduring love.

Together, they raised two children, Ryan and Brenda, in Moreland, Idaho, where family always came first. Ed and Joanne shared a love for the outdoors—camping, fishing, gathering firewood, and enjoying simple adventures like trips to Disneyland with their children. Ed taught his family the values that defined his life: hard work, service, humility, and unwavering devotion to Heavenly Father and Jesus Christ.

In 2011, Ed and Joanne moved to Nampa, Idaho, where they spent their later years forming new friendships, serving faithfully, and cherishing family time.

Faith & Service
A lifelong and faithful member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, Ed served in many callings, most notably as a Cub Scout Leader and Scoutmaster. His dedication and example touched the lives of countless young men, and his selfless service was recognized with the Silver Beaver Award—one of Scouting’s highest honors.

He was known for staying up late to keep the campfire burning during cold nights, ensuring the boys stayed warm and safe—a quiet act that reflected his caring heart.

Later in life, Ed developed a deep love for genealogy and family history, spending countless hours researching and documenting generations of his family tree. His work strengthened eternal connections that will continue to bless his posterity.

Family
Ed is survived by his children:

• Ryan (Catherine) Benson of Nampa, Idaho
• Brenda (Brian) Boran of Marshall, Virginia

He is also survived by 12 grandchildren, 4 great-grandchildren (with one more expected in the spring), and his siblings:

• Josie Hultz, Tacoma, Washington
• Dean (Carla) Benson, Idaho Falls, Idaho
• Debbie (Terry) Cash, Pocatello, Idaho
• Charlote Benson, Island Park, Idaho
• John (Joni) Benson, Belgrade, Montana

He was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Joanne, and his parents, Henry and Betty Benson.

Service Information
Memorial Service:
Wednesday, November 26, 2025 | 1:00 p.m.
Deer Flat LDS Stake Center
7809 Deer Flat Rd., Nampa, Idaho

Family and friends are invited to gather one hour prior to the service.
Burial will follow at Melba Cemetery.

Memorial Contributions
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Ed’s memory to any LDS charitable organization—a fitting tribute to his lifelong spirit of service and faith.

Legacy
Edward Benson’s life was a testimony of love, faith, and dedication. He was a man who worked hard, served quietly, and loved deeply. His legacy will live on through his family, his faith, and the countless lives he blessed through his kindness and example.