Emma Irene Calloway Benfield, age 80, of the Plumtree Community, passed away unexpectedly on Saturday, January 3rd, 2026 at her home.
A native of Avery County, she was a daughter of the late Burl and Alta Barrier Calloway. She was also preceded in death by brothers: Billy Joe Calloway and Bobby Gene Calloway; a sister, Betty Ann Calloway; grandson, Johnny Gouge and a great-grandson, Thomas Garylee Benfield.
She deeply loved her family, especially her grandchildren, who were the light of her life. Her home was always full of warmth, laughter, and the smell of amazing food, where she was known for her legendary potato salad and to her family, was the best cook ever. Irene had a special love for nature and wildlife, often found tending to her flowers and watching all the animals in her backyard and around their property. Her passion for gardening and canning, along with raising her large family kept her busy. She was known by everyone around as “Maw”, a name that perfectly captured her nurturing and kind spirit. She just had a unique way of making everyone feel special.
Surviving is her loving husband of 60 years, Junior Benfield; daughters: Amy Benfield, Christine Gouge (David), Alta Benfield and Lou Stout (Jason), all of Newland; sons: Roger Calloway (Lisa) of Morganton, Ricky Benfield, Jessie Benfield (Crystal) and Donald Benfield (Nancy) all of Newland; sisters: Nancy Tate of Newland and Gail Bailey of Roan Mountain, TN; 15 grandchildren, who she loved as her own kids, and several great-grandchildren. Several nieces, nephews and other extended family also survive.
Funeral Services will be held at 3 p.m. on Wednesday, January 7th at Big Meadows Missionary Baptist Church. Pastors Keith Russell, Wesley Duncan and Mikey Laws will officiate. Burial will follow in the Benfield Cemetery. The family will receive friends from 2 until 3 p.m. prior to the services at the church.
Memorial donations may be made to the funeral home to help with expenses.
To send online Memorial Donations or Condolences to the family, please visit: www.yanceyfuneralservice.com
