Iris Elaine Benson, beloved mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, great-great-grandmother, and friend, went home to be with the Lord on October 17, 2025. A lifelong follower of Jesus Christ, she lived each day with grace, faith, and an unshakable belief in God’s goodness. She was a fervent prayer warrior, always ready to lift others up in prayer, encourage them with scripture, and point them to Jesus. Whenever life was difficult to navigate, her family could call her for wisdom and prayer. She had a gift for being present - fully there for her family, friends, and church community. She was always there to celebrate the milestones of those she loved with joy and gratitude. Her faith shaped every part of her life. She hosted women’s Bible studies for many years, sharing her home and heart with others seeking to grow in Christ. She also hosted monthly gatherings for widows and widowers offering friendship, laughter, and fellowship.
Iris was a teacher in Calcasieu Parish for many years. While teaching in Westlake, she met the love of her life, Marion, and they were wed on April 11,1952. They were blessed with 50 years of marriage and four daughters. They shared a love for studying God’s word, gardening, and games. After her retirement, Iris enjoyed traveling the country with Marion, spending time with her family, and being an active member at her church.
She was a passionate lover of books, though none more cherished than the Bible. She loved playing games - and played to win! She rarely missed an exercise class at the Westlake Recreation Center. She also enjoyed being outdoors, walking in the neighborhood, and lying in her hammock.
She is survived by her daughters, Kathy Smith of Beaumont, Texas, Sharon Villarreal (Juan) of Sugar Land, Texas, and Diane Fanta (David) of Sugar Land, Texas; five grandchildren, Matt Suarez, Marla Snyder (John), Aleyna Villarreal, Laura Moorhouse (Gage), Alicia Villarreal; six great grandchildren, Morgan Carter (Caleb), Hayden Snyder ( Sarah), Noah and Nick Suarez, and Kate and Matt Moorhouse; along with one great-great grandchild, Milo Carter.
Iris is preceded in death by her husband, Marion Benson; her daughter, Cindy Champagne; son-in-law, Gerald; grandson, Daniel Fanta; parents, Ollie and Annie Lee Wyble; along with her brothers, Ollie and Robert Wyble.
A Mass of Christian Burial will be held at St. John Bosco Catholic Church in Westlake, Louisiana on Tuesday, October 28, 2025, at 10:30 am. Visitation will be at Hixson Funeral Home in Westlake, Louisiana on Monday, October 27, 2025, from 5:00 pm until 8:00 pm with a Rosary at 6:00 pm followed by a Celebration of Life and Remembrances. Visitation will resume at the funeral home on Tuesday, from 9:00 am until the procession to the church. Burial will be at Westlake Memorial Park Cemetery in Westlake, Louisiana.
In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to St. John Bosco Catholic Church, Sacred Heart Catholic Church in Richmond, Texas, or a charity of your choice.
Words of comfort may be shared with the family at www.hixsonwestlake.com.
