Etowah, TN - Mary Nell Gentry Benson, 90, of Etowah, TN entered joyfully into the presence of her Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ, on March 23, 2026 at Uplands Village in Pleasant Hill.

Mary Nell was the matriarch of a large and grateful family, a devoted pastor's wife, a loving and steadfast mother to four children, and a deeply caring grandmother and great-grandmother. One of their fondest memories was being taught the art of making biscuits and gravy. Her life was marked by faithfulness, generosity, and quiet strength.

She was a lifelong follower of Christ and a faithful member of His church. Above all, Mary Nell loved people — especially those who were hurting, wandering, or in need of grace. She opened her home, her heart, and her resources freely, welcoming many and helping them find — or return to — faith in Christ. With humility and sincerity, she served the Lord by housing, visiting, feeding, clothing, and comforting multitudes throughout her life.

Mary Nell also lived a long ministry of caregiving within her family. Over more than twenty years, she faithfully cared for her mother, her husband, and her mother-in-law during their declining and final years, offering steady love, patience, and dignity until the end.

She was preceded in death by her husband, Wayne Lee Benson; mother, Thressia Claudella (Queen) Gentry; and father, Joseph Ralph Gentry.

Mary Nell is survived by her only daughter, Mary Tressella Jaggers (Jan) of Louisville, KY, and three sons, Parker Ralph Benson (Carol) of Tallassee, TN, Aaron Lee Benson (Betty) of Kingston, TN and, Billy Wayne Benson (June) of Smithville, TN.

She is also survived by many grandchildren, great-grandchildren, extended family members, and friends who were deeply shaped by her love and faith.

Mary Nell Benson is now living fully and joyfully in the presence of the Lord, reunited with many she loved. We look forward with hope to the day when we will all be joined together again.

The family will receive friends from noon-2 p.m. with the funeral services at 2 p.m. Saturday, April 11, 2026, in the chapel of Laycock-Hobbs Funeral Home with the family officiating. Interment will follow in Cedar Grove Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to Bread of Life Rescue Mission in Crossville.

Those unable to attend may send condolences to www.laycock-hobbs.com/obituaries/Mary-Benson. Laycock-Hobbs Funeral Home in Athens is in charge of the arrangements.