Leonora Benoit Shea

September 14, 1945 - January 09, 2016

Obituary For Leonora Benoit Shea

Leonora "Leo” Shea Benoit died peacefully at home on January 9th 2016 in Raleigh, NC at the age of 70.

Leonora was born on September 14th 1945 in New Orleans, Louisiana to Leo and Wilma Benoit. She graduated from Ben Franklin High School in 1963 and Studied at Louisiana State University. After LSU she spent some time in Guam where she taught English at the local school. After returning to the States she was a trail blazer for women in the work place at companies such as Maison Blanche, Dillard's, and Waccamaw Pottery. At her passing, she was employed by Ripley’s Entertainment. She started as a local gift shop manager and worked her way up to become Vice President of Retail. Leonora is survived by her children David, Taylor, Jack, and Grandchild Andrew.

A service is scheduled for January 15th at Renaissance Funeral Home, with a reception to follow. Father William McConville will officiate the ceremony. All are welcome to attend and celebrate Leonora's life. In lieu of flowers donations may be made to the Pancreatic Cancer Network. https://www.pancan.org/

Services

15 Jan

Memorial Service

03:00 PM - 04:00 PM

Renaissance Funeral Home & Cremation Tribute Center 7615 Six Forks Rd Raleigh, NC 27615 Get Directions »

15 Jan

Reception

04:00 PM - 06:00 PM

Renaissance Funeral Home & Cremation Tribute Center 7615 Six Forks Rd Raleigh, NC 27615 Get Directions »

by Obituary Assistant

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Condolences

September 01, 2020

Salpi Adrouny

Very sad to hear this. Leonora was my partner in chemistry lab at Ben Franklin H.S. I remember her as a lovely, kind soul. Salpi Adrouny, MD
September 01, 2020

Helen

Lit a candle in memory of Leonora Benoit Shea
September 01, 2020

Helen

The one thing I remember the most with working with Leo, is she truly had your best interest at heart, and she wanted you to succeed, she really was a GREAT Boss, and became a friend... A memory: One of our vendors got us all t-shirts saying on the front WWLS and on the back : What would Leo say?" How true is that and I will always chuckle about it..Rest in peace Leo...Helen
September 01, 2020

Ivan

Lit a candle in memory of Leonora Benoit Shea
September 01, 2020

Carla Bordeaux

Lit a candle in memory of Leonora Benoit Shea
September 01, 2020

Chicquita

I was thinking of Leo this morning and just wanted to share the smile that she brings with every thought of her. I miss her so much but I know that she is in a beautiful place at peace and rest. Chicquita
September 01, 2020

Mary Sullivan

It is easy to see that Leo was much loved by family and friends, and appreciated by her work colleagues and business acquaintances over many years. We knew her for such a short time, and only during her illness, but that was long enough to understand that she was a proud, and extremely brave lady, who fought the good fight as hard as anyone we've ever known battling cancer. Leo's family have been there for her every step of the way these past many months. No family could have cared more than they did to make Leo's remaining time full of blessings and abundant love. Leo will be missed by many and remembered by all. Mary & Bob Sullivan, Raleigh, NC
September 01, 2020

Frank Cox

I am very sorry to hear this news, Although a vendor to Ripley's for many years and had communication with Leo via email, regrettably never got to meet Leo in person. She informed me of her condition sometime ago and we shared a few words. She told me that she was very glad that she was with her family. Please accept my sincere condolences. Frank Cox .
September 01, 2020

Taylor Shea Paxton

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September 01, 2020

Anita Naglie

I truly believe that everything that we do and everyone that we meet is put in our path for a purpose. There are no accidents; we're all teachers - if we're willing to pay attention to the lessons we learn, trust our positive instincts and not be afraid to take risks or wait for some miracle to come knocking at our door. Marla Gibbs This to me the above quote describes Miss Leo. I truly feel blessed I was on Leo's path, without question she was an inspiration in my life and I too am proud to have met and spent time with her. And yes she would be saying "Enough now, no tears, and get back to working on the BEST bottom line for us !" Heartfelt joy and sadness to all the lives you touched Miss Leo. With deepest sympathy to your Family, loved ones, your Ripley's Team and all your friends. Anita Naglie
September 01, 2020

Nancy Anderson

After hearing about you and seeing many photos shared by my old friend Lori Fox-Sussina for several years, I finally had the privilege of meeting you a few months ago. I felt as if we knew each other for a long time and that we were kindred spirits that day. As ill as you were then, you exuded so much grace and compassion. I am so glad I had the privilege of that visit and will always remember your warm goodbye hug. Rest in peace, Leo - a beautiful lady with a beautiful spirit. Nancy Anderson
September 01, 2020

april

We came from very different families, but we loved together, laughed together and cried together and one day we were just family from one place and I can't even place when or how it happened it was like it just was. My daughter became your other grandchild and it was as if you were also my mother in law. I have learned so much from you and will forever ask WWLD when I'm not sure. The amount of respect you deserve is immeasurable. My heart is breaking, but I know you won the battle in your own way.