Sena Rená Benchley

Sena Rená Benchley, age 66, passed away, surrounded by family, following a lengthy yet courageous battle with cancer, Saturday afternoon, March 7, 2026 at MyMichigan Saginaw. She was born on February 20, 1960 in Columbus, Ohio. Rená was raised in Ohio and Florida before settling in Bay City. She was a longtime noon aide at Auburn Elementary, McAlear-Sawden Elementary and Western Middle School. Rená enjoyed working with the kids at each school and was always willing to volunteer in any way she could. She enjoyed watching a good scary movie or true crime show and chasing after her grandkids. Rená most important accomplishment was building a wonderful family. After retirement from the schools, she was fortunate to become a fulltime "babysitter" to her grandchildren, something that she cherished and they will never forget. Rená's greatest joy and lifelong priority were her husband, children and grandchildren, and the strength of her family stands as her most meaningful legacy. Holidays were of the utmost importance, and she took full charge to make sure everyone had a full plate and a memorable time. Since the passing of her mother, Rená has taken care of her father and has kept the family together with daily Facetime chats with her sisters. She absolutely lived for her family, and they will miss her deeply. On July 4, 1981 Rená was united in marriage to Jeffrey D. Benchley and he survives her passing along with their children, Natalie (Donald) Horner and Andrew (Aubree) Benchley; her dear grandchildren, Lucas, Lauren, Liam and Aiden; her father, Hurley Hay; her two sisters, Becky (Fred) Hayman and their daughter Summer Lufriu, and Toni (John) Duren and their daughter Haley Viel; her brothers and sisters-in-law, Paul (Janet) Benchley, Jr., Kelly Benchley (Brad Heim), Harold Mercy and Tracey Mercy; and several nieces and nephews. Rená was preceded in death by her mother, Mary (Johnson) Hay; and a niece, Amanda Benchley. The family would like to express their sincere gratitude to Dr. Liu and staff for all the care and compassion they gave to Rená. It was Rená's desire for cremation to take place and no service at this time. For those who so desire, the family suggests donations in her memory to Colorectal Cancer Alliance. Funeral home arrangements are being provided by Trahan Funeral Chapel. Celebrate Rená's life online by sharing your favorite stories and photos on her dedicated webpage at www.trahanfc.com