CAROLINA BEACH — Jana Sue Harshman Benson passed away on December 3, 2025 at the age of 67 peacefully in her home.
She was born on November 28, 1958 in Beech Grove, Indiana. Daughter of Richard Harshman and JoAnne Berauer, Sister of Richard Harshman, Dirk Harshman, Lance Harshman, and wife of late beloved husband Joseph Benson.
Jana is lovingly remembered by her son J Wesley Benson and daughter in law Megan DiNofrio Benson of Carolina Beach, North Carolina. As well as her brother Richard, brother and sister in laws, and many nieces and nephews.
Jana graduated from Warren High School, then went on to attend Indiana University for a Bachelors Degree in Art. She met the love of her life Joseph on a trip to Carolina Beach and made it her home for the next 43 years where they started a family. She later worked teaching at Carolina Beach Elementary School, Scotchman Stores, as well as retiring from the ABC Alcohol Beverage Control in New Hanover County. She also spent many years volunteering for the Dixie Youth Baseball League of Carolina Beach.
Jana was a happy soul, a lover of art, music, plants, all animals, and the ocean. But nothing she loved more than her dogs and her son.
“When the night is cloudy there is still a light that shines on me. Shine until tomorrow, let it be.” -The Beatles “Let It Be”
The family will have a private celebration of life at a later date. But we do appreciate and thank you for your love and support during this difficult time.
