Calandra Dione Benson ( DeDe) was born September 25, 1977 in Fort Wayne, Ind, to Willis and Dorothy Benson. DeDe accepted Christ at the age of twelve and was baptized
under the leadership of the late Reverend Cornelius Walker Sr, of the Antioch Missionary Baptist Church. DeDe graduated from Paul Harding High School. She began her career of nursing while still
in high school as a participant of the ICE Program. After graduation she attended Lutheran Nursing School, there she was able to gain knowledge and skills that allowed her to become a Certified Nursing Assistant(CNA).
Thereafter she was employed with Indiana State Developmental Center. She had a passion for helping others. DeDe carried integrity and persistence with her no matter what job was given. Shortly after her time with Indiana State, she made a decision to further
her education; receiving an Associates degree of Applied Science in Medical Office Administration and Certified Pharmacy Technician. DeDe carried out her career with Orthopedics Northeast as a Medical Biller/Coder and Authorizations until she became ill.

DeDe loved having a good time with family and friends. Her smile and deep dimples would light up a room when she entered. She loved good music, sports, dancing, being a grandmother, an auntie, a sister, daughter and friend. But most of all being and individual, Lets not forget she loved to dress!!!

DeDe is survived by her children; sons, Dominic Benson and JaMarcus Benson both of Fort Wayne; daughter Mariah Benson of Fort Wayne; grandchildren, Jon'tae, Kyrie, A'ariah, Dallas, along with a special arrival April 2024 A'Zara Dione of Fort Wayne; Mother, Dorothy Benson of Fort Wayne; four sister, Yolanda Campbell-Donaldson, Pamela Benson, Cassandra Benson and LaTresha(Samuel) Olaniyan of Fort Wayne; one brother, Willis(Faith)Benson Jr., of Fort Wayne; a host of family and friends.

Along with her Father Willis(Willie) Benson Sr, she was preceded in death by many friends and family who welcomed her to eternity.
Funeral services for DeDe will be held on Saturday February 17, 2024 at 12pm with visitation beginning at 11 am at FairHaven Funeral Home and Cremation Services, 6557 N Clinton St.