Kimberly Ann Benson

Kimberly Ann Benson, passed away peacefully on August 23, 2026, in her home, surrounded by the love of her devoted husband, Mike Benson.

She was born on February 21, 1960, in San Antonio, Texas, to Bobby and Shirley Pickett. Kim was an alumni of South Georgia, Fannin, Amarillo High, and West Texas State University, where she pursued her passion for physical education and health, a calling that would go on to shape the rest of her life.

For 35 years, Kim dedicated herself to teaching physical education, pouring her heart and soul into generations of students. She was also the Amarillo High School Varsity Soccer coach. She was devoted to and spent countless hours with her Bible Study group, and made cherished memories with her Pool Pals, and other community groups. Above all, Kim was a proud "boy mom" to her sons, Dillon and Bryan, devoting her days and nights to ensuring they were active and successful in everything they pursued.

She believed deeply in the power of movement, health, and community, and she brought that belief to life through her famous Belmar Hula Hoop Team, and Jump Rope for Heart program, a legacy that touched countless lives long after students left her class. She didn't just teach PE for 35 years at Belmar Elementary she served her students during their school years and well beyond, leaving a lasting impact on the community she loved.

Outside the classroom, Kim's heart was just as full. She was an active member of her church and a child of God. She found joy in arts and crafts, and there was nothing she loved more than cooking and baking her famous recipes for her family and friends, always ready to share both a full plate, and her love and support. She spent her life taking care of others, and that spirit of generosity and love touched everyone who crossed her path.

Kim is survived by her loving husband, Mike Benson; her sons, Dillon Benson (wife, Jaslyn Benson) and Bryan Benson; her sister, Karen Clements, and Karen's husband, Stan Clements; and their son, Colt Clements.

A memorial service celebrating Kim's life will be held on Thursday, August 27th, at 1:00 pm at Washington Avenue Christian Church, 3800 S Washington St, Amarillo, TX 79110. The service is open to the public, and all who knew and loved Kim are welcome to attend. Arrangements are by Boxwell Brothers Funeral Directors.

Kim will be remembered for her endless generosity, her devotion to her family and students, and the countless lives she touched through decades of teaching, coaching, and simply caring for those around her. Her legacy lives on.