Judy Ann Benna

Judy Ann (Toft) Benna was born on February 24, 1947, in Hartley, Iowa, to Theodore and Leila Toft, and entered Glory on June 9, 2026. She was 79 years old.

Judy grew up in the small town of Royal. Her parents died when she was young, and she moved to Gilmore City, attending Gilmore City High School. She was a cheerleader, played the flute, and spent time helping to care for and raise her many nieces and nephews. She was always a hard worker and spent summers cleaning cabins at Lake Okoboji. After graduation, she attended Iowa State University and earned her degree in Elementary Education. It was here that she met the love of her life, Dennis Benna.

Judy and Dennis married August 13, 1967 and, with their degrees, moved to a farmhouse near Truesdale where Judy taught 6th grade. They then moved to LeMars where they started their family (Justin 1971, Tiffany 1973) and met their lifelong friends, Denny and Mary Hagny.

Judy and Dennis moved around with his work, living in Sioux Center, Kirksville, Jefferson City, and Appleton before settling into Fargo for 19 years. In 2002, they welcomed their grandson, Cody Vincent Benna. After Dennis's death in 2013, Judy moved back to Iowa, eventually finding her home and community at Attivo Trails in Waukee.

Judy was a lifelong learner and teacher, whether learning new crafts or Bible history. Teaching was her passion. She taught for many years in schools and then was a substitute teacher. She taught confirmation classes. She owned her own tutoring business. And who can forget the many Vacation Bible Schools and Christmas programs she orchestrated? Her love for learning and teaching touched and inspired many students and adults.

Judy was a bright light and had so much love to share, which she did generously to anyone she met. She was a fighter, "a tough old bird," and overcame many challenges and difficulties in her life. This only made her more empathetic. She was a good listener and would offer comfort and words of wisdom to family, friends, and strangers alike.

Judy loved her Savior, and always found opportunities to share her faith. She carried rocks with Bible verses or crosses on them in her purse - just in case she came across someone who needed a reminder of God's love and comfort. She had a bowl outside her apartment where she would leave these rocks, dog treats, and other gifts of faith for anyone to take. She wanted people to know that they were loved. No wonder Judy was loved by so many.

Judy now rests in peace and celebrates in Heaven with her husband, family, friends, and her beloved DJ. In her honor, continue to be kind, generous, of good faith, always keep learning, and love one another.

There are two opportunities to remember Judy. Rather than asking family and friends to travel across Iowa, her children hope these gatherings make it easier for folks who wish to do so where and when it makes the most sense.

Celebration of Judy’s Life

July 16 - 5:30 PM Attivo Trail Celebration Center 835 NE Boston Pkwy Waukee, IA

Service followed by refreshments and fellowship in the place where Judy found such joy and friendship in the last years of her life.

Service of Committal & Gathering by the Lake

July 18 - 11:00 AM Buena Vista Memorial Park Cemetery Storm Lake, IA

Judy will be laid to rest in the Benna family plot alongside Dennis (and with her beloved little dog DJ) in a graveside service. Following the interment, family and friends are invited to gather at Sunrise Park overlooking the lake for a casual bring-your-own picnic lunch. Bring everything you need—the shelter has tables, and the kids will have tablecloths, but that’s about it.