Alison Anne Benda Obituary (1951 - 2017)

MADISON Alison Anne Benda, died on October 10, 2017, at home in Madison, NC after a battle with cancer. Alison was born November 18, 1951 in San Diego, California. She was deeply proud to be the daughter of a decorated Marine Corps Officer and to be raised in a military family. Alison graduated in 1969 from Princess Anne High School in Virginia Beach and then from the Shenandoah Conservatory of Music four years later. She earned first chair in trumpet and French horn at both schools. After college Alison taught music and band in rural West Virginia schools, and then returned to Hampton Roads to continue a career in music. She played her trumpet and sang with several local bands. Alison was happiest fishing and crabbing, and puttering around her house and garden, learning something new and caring for all Gods creatures. Decades ago Alison prevailed over substance abuse and thereafter lived a clean and sober life, bringing joy to herself and to her family. She was devoted and influential advocate for survivors of substance abuse. Alison is survived by her partner of thirteen years, Joyce Law; her siblings, Andrea Benda, Stephen and Gretchen Benda, Leslie Benda, Michael and Bridget Benda; four nieces and nephews; seven grand-nieces and nephews and many Benda and Hamilton cousins. All agree that Alison put the FUN in family! All cherished her as a talented, compassionate, intelligent, loving, impish "rascal." A family viewing took place at Colonial Funeral Home in Madison, NC with a memorial service planned for a later date. Alison loved supporting the band at Princess Anne High School. Donations in her memory can be made to Princess Anne High School Band Booster Club, c/o Band Director, John Boyd, PAHS 4400 Virginia Beach Blvd. Virginia Beach, VA 23462 Colonial Funeral Home in Madison is serving the family.