Sandra Benoit

WEBSTER – Sandra C. (Leake/Butler) Benoit, 76, of Webster, passed away on Sunday, January 10, 2021, at UMass Memorial Hospital from complications of COVID-19.  She was predeceased by her husband of 14 years, Alphie J. Benoit who died on December 16, 2020; and her first husband, William H. Butler who died in 1987.  She is survived by two children, John Butler and his wife Sue of Eagle River, AK, and Deborah Stearns and her husband Alan of Oxford; three stepsons, Raymond Benoit and his spouse Steven Randolph of Brothell, WA, Roger Benoit of Las Vegas, NV, and Kenneth Benoit of Las Vegas, NV; five grandchildren, Ryan Butler and his wife Jasmine, Kevin Stearns and his wife Amanda, Christopher Butler and his wife Jessie, Kaitlyn Phelan and her husband Dan, and Joshua Butler; five great-grandchildren, Alaia, Kaitlyn, Colton, and twins Keegan and Emma; several beloved cousins, sister-laws, nieces, nephews, and best friends. She was predeceased by a sister, Linda R. Leake; and two brothers, John M. Leake and Frank E. Leake.  She was born in Worcester, daughter of the late Francis C. and Ruth O. (Guditz) Leake, and lived most of her life in Oxford before moving to Webster 14 years ago.  She graduated from Commerce High School in Worcester in 1962.

Sandra was the office manager at Stearns Electric for 12 years, retiring in 2011.  Previously, she worked for Millbrook Distribution and C&R Tire, and worked in nursing homes in the area when she was younger.  She enjoyed traveling, shopping, and reading.

In 2014, Sandra was part of a six-person kidney exchange program at the UMass Campus in Worcester with thanks to her granddaughter Kaitlyn's husband Dan donating one of his kidneys' in the exchange so she could receive a kidney.

She will be remembered as a kind, sweet, loving person who found joy in giving.  She was a great listener and was happiest in her life when she was helping others.  Her family was most important to her and she loved spending time with her grandchildren and great-grandchildren.  She will be greatly missed by her family and friends.

Due to COVID restrictions, a private graveside service at North Cemetery in Oxford will be held at a later date.  In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to UMass Memorial Healthcare, Office of Philanthropy, c/o Organ Transplant Program, 365 Plantation St., Biotech One, Worcester, MA 01605.  Paradis-Givner Funeral Home in Oxford is directing the arrangements.