Obituary of Gerri Dawn Benedict

Gerri Dawn Benedict, 67, of Burdett, NY passed away on Tuesday, January 9, 2024 at home.

She was born in Ithaca, NY on July 18, 1956, the daughter of the late John Taylor and Grace (Forgatch) Wilken. She graduated from Trumansburg Central School with high honors and attended TC3. Gerri was a secretary in the Ithaca City School District for many years. She was a member of the Montour Falls United Methodist Church. Gerri loved her dogs and enjoyed remodeling and decorating houses.

She is survived by her husband of 30 years, John Winner Benedict; two daughters, Julie Bauman, and Jamie Bauman; two sons, John R. Benedict, and Chris R. Benedict; brothers, David Taylor of San Diego, CA and Rodney Taylor; father, Dr. John Taylor of San Diego, CA; four grandchildren, Bryce, Jake and Ellie Benedict and Ciera Babcock; and cousin, Lisa (Lee) Forgatch.

She was predeceased by her mother, Grace Wilkin; grandparents, John and Mary Forgatch; and aunt Irma and uncle Bob Sayman.

After Gerri passed, John found a framed photo of their wedding with a note attached that Gerri left for him that read “Life is an occasion-RISE TO IT. Don’t be sad because I died…Be happy because I lived. I had a wonderful life!”

A service will be held by the pond at Gerri and John’s home on a date in the Spring. Contributions may be made in her memory to the Montour Falls United Methodist Church, 124 Owego St., Montour Falls, NY 14865.