Obituary of Jason Benson

Jason “Jay” Benson, a coach for Billerica Junior High Football, passed away suddenly, from an apparent heart attack while driving in Providence, Rhode Island on Thursday afternoon, January 19, 2012. He was only 38 years old. Jay was born in Woburn. He grew up in Woburn and was a 1991 graduate of Woburn High School. He worked as a vendor for AMI Distribution, where he merchandised supplied their products in stores all over Eastern Massachusetts and Rhode Island. He had previously worked as a vendor with the AMI/Omega Group formerly of MSL Distribution. When he was younger he worked as a manager at Ritz Camera in Burlington and Woburn. Jay had a number of passions in his life including football, woodworking, and his family. He was a lineman Woburn High School and the Semi Pro Football teams, Nor’easter’s and Manchester Devils. He loved the game, the character, determination, teamwork and confidence it instilled in those who played the game. He had made his home in Billerica for the past 8 years and quickly became involved the Youth Football Program. He had the opportunity to share his knowledge with his son Austin, who was his assistant coach. He was a talented woodworker building cabinetry and furniture as part hobby and part business. He loved the time spent with his family coaching, fishing, camping, playing video games, and just simply “Being There” for his wife and sons. His passing at such a young age is tragic, but he leaves his family with countless memories filled with love and laughter. He will be remembered for his outgoing personality and quick witted humor. Jay was the beloved husband of Amanda “Mandy” (Parsons). He was the devoted father of Austin & Maxwell of N. Billerica. He was the son of Jean Benson of Glendale, AZ and David Benson & his wife Josephine of Woburn. He was the brother of Ian & his wife Amy of Billerica, Kevin Trout & his wife Judy of Woburn. He was the son-in-law of Carl Parsons of Lexington & his fiancée Renee Saulnier and the late Margaret A. Parsons. He was the stepbrother of Jennifer Doherty & her husband Derek of Woburn, Elizabeth Black & her husband Robbie of Woburn, Christina Stafford of Bedford and the late Eddie Stafford and brother-in-law of Ronda Parsons of Middleton, Leanne Rightnour & her husband Greg of N. Royalton, OH. He was the best friend of Tanya Queen, Renee Dodge, Michael & Michelle Greska all of Billerica. Also survived by many aunts, uncles, nieces and nephews. Funeral from the Edward V. Sullivan Funeral Home, 43 Winn St., BURLINGTON (Exit 34 off Rt. 128, Woburn side) on Wednesday Jan. 25 at 8:45 a.m. Followed by Funeral Services at the Parish of the Epiphany, 70 Church St., Winchester, at 10 a.m. Visiting hours Tuesday 4-8 p.m. Relatives & friends respectfully invited to attend. Interment will be Private. Memorials in Jay’s name may be made to Billerica Junior High Football League, C/O Bob Innis, P. O. Box 468, Billerica, MA 01821.