Jeana Woods Benson

Jeana was born November 26, 1963, in Memphis, Tennessee, to Thomas Lamar Woods and Janet Rivers Dickenson Woods. She grew up singing in church alongside her father, and at the age of nine, at her family’s Christian retreat, Rabbit Ridge, she gave her heart to the Lord. Faith and music would remain central to her life.

Her relationship with the Lord eventually led her to pursue the study of music at Oral Roberts University, where she met the love of her life, Andrew. Six years later, they were married at City Church in New Orleans, where they had both been led to serve. Five years later, their son, Andrew Jr.—Drew—was born to their union, and he would forever remain “her Precious.” Their marriage spanned 38 years.

For 40 years, Jeana served in the City Church music ministry as a singer and worship leader. Her anointed voice and ministry became known far beyond New Orleans, touching people around the world. She also served for many years in the church’s hospitality ministry and was known for her love of cooking and entertaining. Along with her husband, she pastored the City Church congregation living on the Northshore.

Professionally, Jeana built a long career in tax administration. She worked with several accounting firms over the years before joining Eisner Amper, where she spent more than a decade.

Jeana is survived by her husband, Andrew Thompson Benson; their son, Andrew Thompson Benson, Jr. (Drew); her brothers, Prentis Eugene Woods (Catherine), Patrick Lamar Woods (Gracie), and Raymond Everett Woods (Janice); and a large extended family of nieces, nephews, grandnieces, and grandnephews. She was preceded in death by her parents, Thomas Lamar Woods and Janet Rivers Dickenson Woods.

In her final days, Jeana was able to return home to New Orleans, where she was surrounded by family, close friends, prayer, and music. In the early hours of September 5, holding a small cross in one hand while her son held the other, she passed peacefully.

Jeana will be remembered for her faith, her voice, her devotion to family, and a life of steady service to others.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that memorial gifts be made to City Church of New Orleans, 13123 I-10 Service Road, New Orleans, Louisiana 70128.