Joan Benito

Joan (“Sweets” as she was lovingly called) Arlene (Barley) Benito was born November 7, 1941 in Lebanon County, Campbelltown, Pennsylvania, to Elizabeth (Sheetz) Barley and Amos Barley. She was the youngest of seven children.

Joan lived in Pennsylvania until she graduated from Hershey High School. Soon after, she met and married her husband of 53 years, Clyde Benito of Everett, Washington. She traveled all over the United States with her husband who was in the Air Force, and even traveled overseas to live in Turkey for a few years. While living in Turkey, they were also fortunate enough to be able to travel to Germany to do some sightseeing. Clyde retired from the Air Force and they moved to Phoenix, Arizona in 1978. When Clyde became ill, Joan was his caregiver for several years. Clyde preceded her in death on December 1, 2016.

She is survived by her two children, Cynthia (Benito) Rivera, and David Benito. She was a grandmother to 4 grandchildren and a great-grandmother to 6 great-grandchildren. She was a mother and friend to all who met her. She was always willing to lend a helping hand to anyone in need. Joan loved all animals and had several pets throughout her life. During her free time she loved road trips and camping with Clyde. Some of her many hobbies included baking homemade bread, reading, lunch dates and shopping, trying new recipes, painting ceramics, drawing and sewing.

A graveside service is scheduled for Friday, January 21, 2022 at 12:00 PM at Resthaven Park Cemetery (6450 W. Northern Ave, Glendale, AZ 85301).

In lieu of flowers, please make a donation to Bright Focus Foundation (Alzheimer’s Disease Research).

Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be shared at www.westresthavenfuneralhome.com for the Benito family.