Kathleen "Kathy" (Foyster) Benker, 80, of Owego, NY, passed peacefully in her home on July 6, 2025.

Born on January 29, 1945 in Buffalo, NY, Kathy was a mother of five, grandmother of eleven, and great-grandmother of seven.

She was predeceased by her parents, Mary (McColl) and Paul Foyster and her beloved daughter, Mary Rose "Molly" Benker. She is survived by her sister; Paulette (Foyster) Russell, her children; Sarah (Benker) Chester & Daniel Chester, Theresa Benker, Katherine Benker-Boral, and Michael Benker; her grandchildren, Cassandré, Lyda, Nicholas, Jayda, Danté, Milo, Max, Zofia, Violet, Maxwell and Colette; and her seven beloved great-grandchildren, a niece, a grand-niece and grand-nephew.

She had recently been under the care of Duke Cancer Center in North Carolina for a newly diagnosed cancer, while Alzheimer's, Vascular Dementia, and Parkinson's — formally named only three weeks ago — had quietly shaped her life for decades before being diagnosed.

The family holds special gratitude for her loved ones in North Carolina, and especially for her grandson, Danté, whose tireless devotion—despite her many worries and colorful complaints—brought her laughter, encouragement, unwavering support, and countless moments of joy in her final months.

Kathy was a hairstylist her entire life, finding immense joy and pride in her craft. Doing hair brought her connection, creativity, and purpose, and she gave generously to her community, long before illness ever touched her life.

At home, Kathy delighted in her beautiful flowers and garden. Her love was rewarded by producing show stopping roses the size of our heads and a stunning purple clematis backdrop for all summer portraits. She loved teaching her children, grandchildren and great-grandchildren how to bake cookies, make strawberry jam, and sharing family traditions that will live on far beyond her years. Kathy's love was always felt through her recipes and her creativity.

In her final days, she was cared for gently at home, exactly as she wished, sparing her loved ones the heartbreak she once carried from finding her own mother gone.

In keeping with her wishes, there will be no formal services. Her family will honor her privately, holding close the countless memories, laughter, and lessons she leaves behind.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Alzheimer's Association in her name, to support research and care for families living with dementia. https://www.alz.org , P.O. Box 96011 Washington, DC 20090.

Breathe easy now, Nana. Dance all night long. We love you always.