Edward Andrew Benedict

Benedict, Edward Andrew, 84, of Ormond Beach, formerly of South Farmingdale passed away July 14, 2023. Beloved husband of Joan Elizabeth. Loving father of Jo-Ann Eschmann (Thomas), George (Serena), Thomas (Chad) and the late Edward Andrew Jr. Cherished grandfather of Jarrett (Brittany), Troy (Rachael), Karen Schwind (Matthew) and Tristan (Caitlyn), Allison, and Taran (Allison Fiske). Adored great-grandfather of Chloe Jane, George, Elsie and Lillian. Treasured brother of George, Diane Atkisson (Robert), Warren (Barbara) Gary (Dolores) and the late Marilyn. Dear brother-in-law of Richard Dedora (Leslie) and the late Diane Ehlinger (Ronnie). Retired FDNY firefighter and former volunteer firefighter for East Farmingdale and South Farmingdale Fire Departments. Edward was a jack of all trades and worked in various industries throughout his life. He was an auto mechanic, tow truck driver, chef, deputy sheriff, general contractor and owned his own bar and restaurant. Edward was a proud member of the Knights of Columbus and AA with 36 years in good standing. He was also involved in many other community groups such as the Homeowners Property Board, Religious Education, Eucharistic Ministries, and was also a Church Usher for many years. Edward was always known to lend a helping hand due to his ability to fix just about anything. Neighbors and friends would call, and he would be there, with a cigar and tools in hand, ready to assist. Home Depot and Lowe's were his favorite stores, he was like a kid in a candy store whenever he went. In his free time, he enjoyed puzzles and playing cribbage. Edward enjoyed the outdoors and developed a passion for gardening, even becoming a Master Gardener in the state of New Hampshire. He also had an unexplainable love for animals and couldn’t resist bringing home many stray dogs. Some of his favorite dogs were Munchen, Heidi, Caesar and Whiskers. Edward also adored his wife’s dog Suzette "Sue-Sue".  Of the three of them Mom ruled the roost, next was Sue-Sue, and lastly followed, Dad. Edward was a devoted husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather, brother, and friend but he will be missed by all who had the pleasure of knowing him. The family will receive visitors Monday, 7-9 pm at Arthur F. White Funeral Home, Inc., 315 Conklin Street, Farmingdale. Funeral Mass Tuesday, 9:45 am at St. Kilian RC Church. Interment following at Pinelawn Memorial Park. In lieu of flowers, please make donations in Edward’s memory to Uniformed Firefighters Association; ufanyc.org or the Knights of Columbus; kofc.org.