Pauline H. “Polly” Benton, 89, of DeLand, Fla., passed peacefully at her home with her family by her side. She was born to Dr. Frederic and Germaine (de Blois) Houde in Trois-Rivieres, Quebec.

Polly was knowledgeable and passionate about music and her love of sports was well known. While living in Barrington she was a member of Rhode Island Country Club where she won many golf and tennis awards. She was also a member of the Barrington Garden Club. Polly loved to play bridge and was an avid reader — always was on top of the latest news.

Polly was an amazing woman with a huge spirit; she was a wonderful cook and hostess. She moved 18 times, often the result of transfers with her first husband, Charles Benton, and made friends wherever she went.  Polly was a wonderful, caring mom and grandmother who instilled in us the importance of family and set the example of style in the way she dressed. She was a savvy shopper and anyone would be challenged to keep up with her. Her legacy lives on in each and every one of us who have been touched by her love.

She was predeceased by Charles Benton and Bill Pedrick and brother Roger Houde (Phina Fortier). She is survived by daughters Barbara Cregan (Peter Kovarik) of Sanford, Fla., Karen Valdimarsson (Thor) of DeLand, Fla. and Susan Griffith Schneider (Curt) of Surry, Maine. In Quebec, brothers Jean and Maurice and sisters Denise (Benoit Lefebvre), Madeleine, Suzanne (Robert Brown) and in San Francisco, Calif., Jacqueline (Dr. Roland J. Barakett). Also grandchildren Scot Cregan (Dr. Caroline), Kimberly Cregan, John Matthews (Karen), Susie Matthews, Sara and Frank Griffith and great-grandchildren Dervala Cregan and Connor Matthews plus many nieces and nephews.

Service will be private with burial to take place in Trois-Rivieres, Quebec, Canada at a later date. Donations may be made to a charity of your choice.