Java Marie Stepp Benison, 93

Java Marie Stepp Benison, 93, of Hendersonville went to be with the Lord, Monday, Nov. 3, 2014, at the Elizabeth House with her loving family by her side.

She was a native of Henderson County, born and raised in the Deep Gap area of Henderson County, lived in Miami, Fla., for 46 years before moving back to Hendersonville in 2000.

She was the only daughter and last survivor of the late David Furman Stepp and Gladys Mae Hyder Stepp and was also preceded in death by her husband, James W. Benison; a daughter, Barbara Benison Maney and four brothers, Pearce, Aaron, Milas and Brownlow Stepp.

Java was a pre-school teacher's helper at Westwood Christian Day School in Miami, Fla., and was a devoted wife, mother and grandmother.

She is survived by four sons, Jimmy Benison (Donna) of Las Vegas, Nev., Eddie Benison (Piedad) of Houston, Texas, Eric Benison (Anne) of Polk County, and David Benison (Regina) of East Flat Rock; seven grandchildren; seven great grandchildren and several nieces and nephews.

A graveside service will be held at noon Friday, Nov. 7, 2014, at Forest Lawn Memorial Park with Rev. Jeff Tankersley and Rev. Joshua Schaller officiating.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Wayside Baptist Church, 21 Straight and Narrow Way, Flat Rock, NC 28731 or to Council On Aging; ATTN: Meals on Wheels division; 105 King Creek Blvd, Hendersonville, N.C. 28792..

A special thanks to Dr. Randy Tryon and Staff, Park Ridge Hospital ICU and ER, The Elizabeth House and to anyone who assisted Java and her family.

Condolence cards may be sent to the family at www.jacksonfuneralservice.com or to P.O. Box 945, Hendersonville, NC 28793.