Annette Jean Benson-Lester, age 53, passed away peacefully at home, surrounded by many loved ones on January 7, 2026. Annette was born on June 20, 1972 to Marvin and Lois Benson, in Honolulu, Hawaii, a proud military daughter whose early life was shaped by travel, family, and adventure.

She spent several years of her childhood living in Germany, attending Osterholz American High School from 1986–1988, before her family settled in Richmond, Indiana, where she graduated from Richmond High School, Class of 1990.

Annette lived life with courage, joy, and an open heart. She never met a stranger and had a gift for making everyone feel like family. She was deeply involved in her children's lives, serving as a Girl Scout leader for more than a decade, school PTO, countless fundraisers, and a "second mom" to many, always planning exciting trips, meaningful activities, and unforgettable adventures. If there was a way to make something happen, Annette would find it. No adventure was ever too big.

Her greatest love was her family. She was the devoted mother of Christopher (Liz) Lester, Zachary Lester, and Savannah (Zach) Haager, the proud grandmother of Riley, Braxton, Wyatt, and Lilly, and beloved sister of David Benson. There was nothing she would not do for her children and grandchildren, and her presence, love, and laughter filled every room she entered.

Annette had a passion for travel, board games, and throwing unforgettable parties earning her the well-deserved title of "ultimate party planner." More than anything, she cherished time spent with the people she loved, always creating moments that turned into memories.

Annette was actively involved in countless community service events, committees and Boards, serving as the co-founder of the Young Republicans of Wayne County, precinct committeewoman, campaign chairperson, and many others.

Professionally, Annette dedicated 13 years to Berry Plastics in Human Resources, where many coworkers became lifelong friends. Since 2014, she served as Human Resources Manager at Vandor Corporation, where she continued to build relationships, advocate for others, and lead with compassion.

Annette was a true fighter, never giving up hope in her battle with breast cancer, not allowing it to define her but to inspire her to live the best of each moment. Even in the midst of her own struggles, she remained focused on others, encouraging, supporting, and loving fiercely. Her strength, determination, and selflessness defined her life.

She leaves behind her beloved children, grandchildren, brother, nephews, niece, a wide circle of dear friends, and countless lives forever changed by her kindness, laughter, and unwavering love.

Annette was preceded in death by her parents, Marvin Benson and Lois Jean Benson, Grandparents Alex and Mary Warren, Aunts Betty Smith-Henson, and Portia Warren, Cousins Rachel Dew, Derrick George and many other family members who were there to greet her at Heaven's Gates.

Friends may Call Wednesday January 14, 2026 from 4p.m.-8p.m. at The Pentecostal Tabernacle Church, 480 West Eaton Pike, Richmond, Indiana. The celebration of life will be held on Thursday, January 15, 2026 at 11:00 A.M. at The Pentecostal Tabernacle Church, 480 West Eaton Pike, Richmond, Indiana with Rev. Tyler Luck officiating. Burial will follow at Greens Fork South Cemetery. Stegall-Berheide-Orr Funeral Home is handling arrangements. Online condolences may be shared with the family via the guest book at stegallberheideorr.com.