Providence Anne Benedict

Born in Indianapolis on July 10th, 1942, Providence “Prov” was the daughter of Louis and Mary Benedict. She graduated from Saint Catherine’s Parochial School and Saint Mary’s Academy before earning a bachelor’s of arts degree from Marian University and a master’s degree in social work from Indiana University-Indianapolis. Prov worked for Catholic Social Services, served as chief of staff for the commissioner of the state Family and Social Services Administration and was as a secondary school social worker for Indianapolis Public Schools. Governor Evan Bayh awarded Prov the Sagamore of the Wabash, one of the state’s highest honors for public service. As Chair of the Marion County Democratic Party, Prov’s tireless work rebuilding the party helped lay the foundation for its future electoral success. The Benedict family’s famous spaghetti and meatball “Sauce Off” competition was a major fundraiser that celebrated both Prov’s love of family and Italian cooking. Although Prov never won the “Sauce Off,” she would go on to great success with slot machines, poker, and picking National Football League and Indianapolis 500 winners. Prov was a devoted volunteer at A Caring Place, Marquette Manor Senior Living, and numerous local, state and national political campaigns. She is survived by her partner, Carolyn Flynn Fay; sisters Mary Lou Belch, Rosemarie Rightor, Joann Flynn, Barbara Sylvester, Angela Minkner and Margaret Alexander, and many beloved nieces, nephews and their children. She was predeceased by her brother, Anthony M. Benedict. A celebration of life will be held at 10 a.m. Thursday at Saint Thomas Aquinas Catholic Church, 4625 N. Kenwood Avenue, in Indianapolis, followed by a noon funeral Mass. Contributions may be made in Providence’s honor to the Indianapolis Public Schools Foundation.

Burial will be in Crown Hill Cemetery.