Catherine Sara “Katy” Benefield (McClure) died on Jan. 27, 2020, from cancer in Austin, Texas, at the age of 53.
Katy is survived by her loving father, Robert McClure of Chautauqua, New York; dedicated husband, Dennis “Randy” Benefield, Jr.; beloved children, Melanie and Luke; and adoring siblings, Brian, Margie and Judy. Katy is preceded in death by her ever watchful mother, Sally Pryor McClure, and nephew Jack.
Katy was born on Jan. 27, 1967 in Washington, DC, to Bob and Sally McClure. She graduated from Woodrow Wilson High School in 1985; University of Oregon in 1991 with a degree in social work; and Concordia University Texas in 2011 with a Master’s in Education. She and her family loved Chautauqua and spent many happy days on the grounds with Sally and Bob, her siblings and “the cousins.”
She married Dennis Benefield, Jr. in 1994 after meeting in Austin, Texas. Over the next several years the couple welcomed two extraordinary children into their home and Katy set about teaching and showing them love and joy of family and friends. Her children know they are loved forever and will remember her as a wise and kind mother who encouraged them to pursue their very individual personal goals along the way to happiness.
Katy was an accomplished teacher and caregiver and worked extensively with children and students throughout her life and professional career, including fighting and advocating for the most challenged and at-risk in her community. She was a nanny, a case worker for Texas Child Protective services, a stay-at-home mom to Melanie and Luke, and most recently a teacher at Wiley Middle School in Leander, Texas.
She was a generous and truly dedicated friend. Katy loved laughing and hanging out with her sisters and brother, and of course adored all her loving nieces, nephews, and extended families. Above all, Katy focused on her daughter and son. There remains no limit on the impact of her caring and guidance over the rest of their lives.
Katy loved hydrangeas, sweets, laughing with friends, and her husband and family. She will be remembered as a champion for all children, a loving wife and mother, the best baby sister, a caring daughter, a loyal and generous friend, and always as our squad leader.
Through the end of her earthly life, Katy was cared for by many friends, especially Charlotte, Lana, Christian, and Annette. Katy was an active and dedicated member of her community in Leander Texas, and often volunteered at public schools in Austin.
In lieu of flowers, the family has established a fundraising campaign to support Katy’s children, and help recover from overwhelming medical debt not nearly covered by insurance: https://tinyurl.com/KatyCampaign
