Donni was born to Donald and Barbara Mitchell on May 24, 1950 in Emporia, KS. While in high school, she met the love of her life, David Benson, and would spend the remainder of her life with him by her side through many adventures together. Donni and David were together for 57 years and married for nearly 54 years in total. Donni graduated from Wichita State University with a degree in Business and furthered her studies at Emporia State University and K-State University earning a degree in Accounting.
She leaves behind her loving husband, Dr. David Benson; her two children, son Scott and wife Stevie, and grandson Ford Benson; daughter Neisha (Benson) Yost and husband Jim Yost. She is survived by her sister, Carla and her husband Jeff and a brother Stephen and his wife Diana; along with lots of nieces and nephews. She is preceded in death by her sister, Deborah Schmidt.
She loved to quilt, sew, paint, knit, crochet, and water sports. She worked as an Officer at First Federal Savings & Loan in Newton, KS and did accounting work for various companies and individuals throughout her life. She was a member of the PEO organization and was vocal about women’s rights. She loved animals and nature, especially flowers. She lived most of her life in the Midwest and enjoyed several years in St. Croix, USVI enjoying the beaches of the Caribbean. Her two dogs and cat miss her love fondly.
In lieu of flowers, please send donations to the KC Pet Project or Wayside Waifs in her memory.
A Celebration of Life will be held at a later date.
