Phyllis M. Benson

We mourn the passing of Phyllis Milinda Benson, age 67, on June 6th, 2026 after complications from surgery. Her passing has left a great void in all those who loved her dearly. Her smile and kindness will never be forgotten by all those who knew her.

Phyllis was born in Pascagoula, Mississippi on August 28th, 1958 to James and Eleanor Wilson Boler. She came of age living in Hattiesburg, Mississippi, where she graduated from Hattiesburg High School in 1976 and later gave birth to the joys of her life, Jason and Drew, with her first husband, Louis Rhian. On June 17th, 1986, she married her soul mate, Don, and they set out on a series of adventures for 40 years. They moved to Casper, Wyoming in 1995 after 9 years of marriage and made Casper their home.

Phyllis was passionate about so many things and loved beauty in its many manifestations. She took ballet for many years, but always loved tap dancing the best. Her love of music was evident in the many concerts she and Don attended, as well as just listening to it constantly around the house. She took photography classes and made it a lifelong passion. She took pleasure in taking pictures of the outdoors and landscapes, but also family and especially her three grandchildren. Her love of cooking made many people very happy and satisfied! During her earlier years, she loved the ocean and went diving in the Cayman Islands.

She worked in the banking industry for a number of years, though her main commitments were always to her family. She delighted in seeing and spoiling her grandchildren; Eli, Elliott, and Emma.

She is predeceased by her parents, James and Eleanor Boler. She is survived by her husband, Don Benson, her sons, Jason Earl Rhian (Tommy), and William Andrew Rhian, her brother, James "Jim" Boler (Jeanette) and her sister, Elizabeth "Libby" Sellers (Pat).

A memorial service honoring her life will be set at a later date. Memorial contributions can be made to The American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (ASPCA).

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