Sabetha, Kansas native Jay R. Benson, went home to the Lord October 24, 2023, at the age of 88. He was born on September 4, 1935, to Ritchie Fay Benson and Naomi Ruth Moore Benson. He was the loving father to Candace Okada, Marlys Emery, Martin Benson and Brian Benson. He is survived by his children and his brother Kay L. “Ben” Benson of Hiawatha, KS, six grandchildren: Aaron Okada, Jordan Okada, Tiffanie Okada, Carter Benson, Emily Benson, and Molly Benson. Jay also had four great-grandchildren: Nathan Okada, Jacob Okada, Presley Okada and Preston Okada. He was also blessed with many other dear family members and friends.

Jay grew up on a farm between Hamlin and Morrill, Kansas and treasured his memories of being raised in a small farming community by loving parents. As an adult, he liked to reminisce about the “good ol’ days on the farm”. He attributed his strong work ethic to his rearing. In later years, he would spend his two week vacation and returned to Brown County to help Larry Stover near Morrill with fall harvest, of which he did for several years, even after retiring. In his opinion, it couldn’t get any better than operating a “John Deere” combine!
Jay graduated from Hamlin High School in 1953. Jay served stateside in the U.S. Air Force from 1954-1958, as an aircraft mechanic.

Jay earned his Bachelor- Degree in Accountancy in 1962 from California State University, Sacramento. He then began working for the State of California, retiring from the CA Office of Statewide Health Planning and Development in January 2000. Jay traveled extensively after his retirement.

He had a passion for sports and volunteered as the official scorekeeper for many years for the Elk Grove High School girls’ basketball team. He also was faithful to cheer on each of his grandkids when they played team sports.

Jay loved the Lord Jesus Christ and had placed his trust in Him as his savior at a young age. He was involved in Bible studies and regularly worshiped at Creekside Christian Church in Elk Grove. During his life he was a member of church choirs and used his gifts in accounting in serving opportunities related to church finances.

A celebration of Jay- life was held in California November 17, 2023.

Those wishing to leave a note to the family may do so locally at www.chapeloaksfuneralhome.com