Sara Lou Benard, 86, of Arthur, took the hand of her loving husband, Pat, on Monday, March 24, 2014 as he led her into the gates of Heaven to be reunited with her three sons, Terry, Michael, and Marty.

A Celebration of Life Service will be held at 10:00 AM Saturday, March 29, 2014 at Shrader Funeral Home, 431 S. Vine Street, Arthur, with Pastor Marianna Taylor officiating.

Sara Lou was born August 24, 1927 in Cypress, Illinois, the daughter of Lowell and Ruth Jackson Ashley, and sister to Mary Rita.

She and her family moved to Arthur where she was a 1945 graduate of Arthur High School. She was united in marriage to George "Pat" Benard on May 22, 1945, just one day after her high school graduation. Together, they made a home in Arthur where Sara Lou worked for over 40 years at Grantham's Drug Store, which was later known as Dicks Pharmacy. Many customers still recall her smile and joyful wit as they would place their order for a fountain drink or dish of ice cream. All of Sara Lou's friends knew her love of long conversations that were always filled with lots of laughter. She had a great love for the Arthur community that she lived in for most of her life.

She was a 51-year member of the American Legion Auxiliary #479 and was active in their functions during her early years. She was also a member of the Vine Street Christian Church.

Sara Lou leaves behind to mourn her loss four grandchildren, Bill (Lisa) Benard of Costa Mesa, California; Mindy Benard of Costa Mesa, California; Jennifer (Brian) Davies of Riverton, Utah; and Aubrey (Zach) Kingery of Arthur. Also surviving are 6 great grandchildren, Andy and Brenden Benard, Madison Benard, Sarah and Brilee Davies, and Jase Kingery. She was preceded in death by her husband, Pat; sister, Mary Rita; and sons, Terry, Michael, and Marty.

Memorial donations are suggested to the Arthur Fire and Ambulance or the Arthur American Legion Auxiliary #479.

The family of Sara Lou wishes to thank the staff of the The Arthur Nursing Home and all of her friends at Watkins Estates for their care and compassion. She will be greatly missed by all of knew her.

Online condolences to the family may be sent to www.hilligossshraderfh.com.