Gladys Marie Benskin

Gladys Marie Benskin passed away on July 29, 2022 with loved ones by her side in Bakersfield, California. Gladys was born on April 19, 1938 to Lamar and Mattie Allison. She had three brothers and one sister, all deceased. Gladys moved to Bakersfield with her parents when she was 15 years old. She had many struggles and hardships in her life, which only made her stronger. One of her greatest accomplishments, besides raising her 11 children, was becoming a Certified Nurse’s Aide and Ward Clerk at San Joaquin Hospital, where she was employed for 20 years. There she met her best friend, Ruby West, who was like a sister to her. She raised 11 children (inside joke-7+7=11). She was also NanNaw to many grandchildren, great grandchildren and great great grandchildren. The apple of her eye was her grandson, Jamie Sewell. She was preceded in death by her children, Michael Benskin, Jackie Robinson, Joanie Bartley, Glenn (Butchie) Benskin, Jimmy Sewell, Bobbie Benskin and Connie Crimmins. Also, such a special person in her life and ours, whom we called Papa Shoemake. She is survived by her children, Gene (Kathy) Benskin, Margie Benskin, Debbie (Rick) Yochum and Ricky (Tonya) Benskin. Viewing will be at Basham Funeral Care on Monday, August 15 at 4 pm (family) and 5-8 pm. Graveside services at Hillcrest Mortuary on Tuesday, August 16 at 10 am. She will be dearly missed and forever in our heart.