Ellen Maraie Benoit

In Loving Memory of Ellen Maraie Benoit Ellen Maraie Benoit, born on December 22, 1946, to the late Joseph Benoit Sr. and Ethel McKendall Benoit, journeyed peacefully into eternal rest on January 13, 2024. A woman of remarkable strength, resilience, and kindness, Ellen's legacy is a testament to a life well-lived. Ellen's educational journey began at Valena C. Jones Elementary School in New Orleans, Louisiana. She later graduated from George Washington Carver Senior High School, continuing her academic pursuits at Southern University in Baton Rouge, Louisiana, where she earned her Bachelor of Arts degree in Psychology. During her time at Southern University, Ellen became an active member of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc., a bond that remained close to her heart throughout her life. Taking her passion for psychology further, Ellen pursued a Master of Science Degree in Clinical Psychology at Case Western Reserve University in Cleveland, Ohio. She dedicated two decades to practicing clinical psychology in Ohio, impacting numerous lives through her compassion and expertise. Ellen's adventurous spirit led her to various corners of the United States, including Detroit, Michigan, Asheville, North Carolina, and Atlanta, Georgia. Fueling her entrepreneurial passion, she delved into real estate, purchasing and renovating numerous properties. Ellen even obtained her realtor's license, showcasing her commitment to excellence in every endeavor. After her vibrant journey, Ellen returned to her roots in Louisiana, settling in LaPlace. There, she contributed her skills to the State of Louisiana as a Regional Placement Specialist for the “Louisiana Department of Children & Family Services”; where she touched the lives of many children and their families. Along the way, she faced life's challenges with grace and resilience, exemplifying the strength of her character. Ellen was preceded in death by her beloved husband, Samuel Benford, her sister Mary Ann Benoit-Alexander, her infant brother Joseph Benoit Jr., her father Joseph Benoit Sr., and her mother Ethel McKendall Benoit. She is survived by her brother-in-law Alvin Alexander Sr., nephew Alvin Joseph Alexander II and wife Eny Alexander, nephew Craig Anthony Alexander and wife Sheila Alexander, nephew Ennis Alexander and wife Dacia. Additionally, Ellen leaves behind her great nephew Craig Benoit Alexander and three great nieces: Skylar Alexander, Sabrina Maryann Alexander, and Valentina Biderya Alexander Ellen's life was enriched by numerous friends and relatives, but special mention goes to Ms. Diana Gibbs, Ms. Kaedra Arnold, Ms. Arie Wilson, Ms. Marvis White, Mr. Larry Norman, Ms. Tanasha Lindsey, who were all exceptionally close to her heart. A celebration of Ellen's life will be held in Folsom, LA in the Spring of 2024. In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made to the “American Cancer Society Patrick F. Taylor Hope Lodge— New Orleans, LA” in Ellen's honor. May her soul find eternal peace, and may her memory live on in the hearts of those who were touched by her warmth and kindness. Ellen Maraie Benoit will be deeply missed and fondly remembered.

Ellen Maraie Benoit

December 22, 1946 - January 13, 2024