In Loving Memory of Gayla Renee Benson

April 30, 1960 – August 19, 2026

Gayla Renee Benson, 66, passed away peacefully on August 19, 2026, surrounded by her loving family.

Born on April 30, 1960, in Fairbanks, Alaska, and was raised in North Pole, Alaska, Gayla grew up with a resilient spirit and a warm heart that she carried with her throughout her life.

She later made homes in Texas, Florida back to Alaska before eventually settling in Independence, Kansas, where she continued sharing her kindness, compassion, and love with everyone around her.

Gayla had a special way of bringing people together. She especially loved planning parties and creating happy memories for the neighborhood children. Known affectionately as the “Gramsy” of her apartment complex, she opened her heart to the kids around her and made them feel loved, welcomed, and special.

Gayla was known for her deep empathy and unwavering commitment to helping those in need. Her gentle presence, generous heart, and ability to truly see and care for people made her a source of comfort and strength to many. She lived her life with grace, offering love without hesitation and compassion without limits being a light to those in darkness.

Above all, Gayla cherished her family. Her children and grandchildren were among the greatest joys of her life, and the love she gave them will continue to live on through the memories they shared and the lessons she taught.

She was preceded in death by her parents, Eldon and Wynnel Wright; her brother; and Mike O. McCain jr, and Mike O. McCain Sr.

Gayla is lovingly remembered by her children, Jazzmine Miles (Donnie), Jaylene Davis, Ashley Linton, and Michael Lawrence (Meagan); her brother, James D. Wright; her nephew, Brandon Warren; and her 17 grandchildren, Jeremiah, Kaeleigh, Donald III, Shelby, Matthew, Faith, Destiny, Davis, Trishelle, Taylor, Jewelene, Jordon, Conley, Eleanor, Brett, Brooke and Scarlett and each of whom she cherished deeply.

Gayla's legacy lives on in the hearts of her family, her friends, the children she welcomed into her life, and all those who were fortunate enough to experience her kindness. She will be remembered for her loving heart, her compassion for others, and the warmth she brought wherever she went. 

Though she will be deeply missed, the love Gayla gave so freely will remain with those who knew and loved her forever.

A service to honor Gayla's life will be planned at a future time.