Marian Rosa Benn

Marian Waller Benn, 91, passed away peacefully on May 10, 2025, at the Harmony Collection at Hanover in Mechanicsville, Virginia.

Born on December 8, 1933, in the Varina area of Henrico County, she was the daughter of the late Leno Waller and Estelle Gordon Waller. Marian was educated in the Henrico County public school system and graduated from Virginia Randolph High School in 1952. She went on to earn a Bachelor of Arts in Elementary Education from Virginia Union University in 1956.

Marian had a deep passion for teaching. She began her career in Surry County, where she taught for 16 years at both the elementary and high school levels. She also contributed her talents to adult education programs, touching the lives of countless students over the years.

While in Richmond, Marian met Herman T. Benn, a practicing attorney. The two married in 1969 and later moved to his hometown of Suffolk, Virginia. There, Marian supported Herman in his private law practice and discovered a new passion—law. With Herman’s encouragement and guidance, Marian pursued legal studies independently, reading the law in the traditional apprenticeship model. Her dedication and determination led her to pass the Virginia State Bar without attending law school. She practiced law alongside her husband for several years until their retirement.

Marian was preceded in death by her beloved husband, Herman, in 2007. She is survived by two loving sisters, Bernice Fletcher of Maryland and Clarice Morris of Richmond, Virginia, as well as a host of devoted nieces, nephews, and friends who will forever cherish her memory.

Marian Waller Benn will be remembered for her intellect, grace, and the quiet strength with which she touched every life she encountered.

A public viewing will be held 3-5pm, Wednesday, May 21, 2025 at Crocker Funeral Home, Inc. A celebration of life will be held on Thursday, May 22, 2025, at 11 a.m. at St. Mark's Episcopal Church. Professional services with dignity have been entrusted to Crocker Funeral Home, Inc.