Frederiki Beno

Frederiki "Freddy" Beno, 81, of Quinebaug, Connecticut, passed away peacefully at home with family on June 30, 2025, after enduring a lengthy illness.

Born on November 6, 1943, in Piraeus, Greece, Frederiki lived an extraordinary life filled with passion, creativity, travel, service, and love, leaving an indelible mark on those around her.

Frederiki began her life's journey surrounded by the vibrant culture of her Greek homeland, where she pursued an education in Greek Language, Music, and Voice at the University level. Her exquisite, melodious voice became her trademark, bringing joy to countless people and gracing the chanter’s role at her beloved Sts. Constantine & Helen Greek Orthodox Church for
decades.

Many people will remember her or first met her at Beno’s Variety Store, a small market she and her husband John operated for many years. Her engaging
personality drew many people and developed friendships over the years. After Closing the store to retire she was often heard to say “she didn’t miss working, but she really missed the people”.

After immigrating to the United States, Frederiki further developed her talents, discovering her profound passion for fine art. Guided by the renowned Master Painter Foster Caddell in Voluntown, CT, she mastered her craft and soon emerged as a remarkable artist. Her brilliant works captivated audiences well beyond Connecticut, with numerous showings throughout Europe, notably at
the Mansion of the Duchess of Placentia. Among the pinnacles of Frederiki's artistic career, her paintings were proudly chosen for display in the Connecticut State Capitol Building, Hartford, CT.

In 1992 she received the high honor of being chosen by the office of the US President as the one artist from about 2,000 submissions and with the approval of the Speaker of the House of Representatives she was honored with an exclusive exhibition held in the Rotunda of the Cannon House Office Building on Capitol Hill for 1992 in Washington, DC. She was also very proud of her portraits and also chosen to commissioned to paint a portrait of the Patriarch of the Greek Orthodox Church.

Frederiki was admired for her formidable and fearless personality. As a natural educator and advocate, she fiercely championed justice, standing up for anyone unable to defend themselves. She will always be remembered for encouraging others to stand firm against oppression and teaching those most vulnerable to find strength in their voice. Her pride in both her Greek heritage and her adopted homeland of the United States was profound, her love and commitment unwavering. For those who knew her, if they looked in a dictionary
for a definition of Courage, there would be no surprise if her picture was there.

An adventurous soul, Frederiki was constantly ready for exploration, filling her passport pages with memories from diverse cultures worldwide. Her relentless pursuit of knowledge, along with her optimism and positive outlook, was contagious and inspired all she encountered. The spirit of charitable work and genuine empathy flowed through Frederiki’s life. She tirelessly organized
and marshaled countless donations, gift packages, and resources to support individuals less fortunate. Frederiki was a beloved and familiar figure within the Quinebaug community, known for the family-operated market she owned and lovingly maintained, a gathering place for friends and neighbors alike. Her unwavering devotion to helping those in need exemplified the depth of her heart and character.

Frederiki leaves behind cherished family members who adored her immensely, including her son, George Beno, of Quinebaug, CT and daughter, Maria Beno of Brookline, MA. She was preceded in death by her beloved husband of 41 years John Beno. She also counted Scott Bibeau, now of Louisville, KY who resided for times in her home as the third of her children. Maria Pasiakos of Brooklyn, CT will also remain in her heart as her sister and dearest friend. Her close friends and community, to whom Freddy gave her fierce loyalty and love unconditionally, will dearly miss her.

Friends and family are invited to celebrate Freddy's vibrant life during visiting hours from 5:00 to 8:00 pm on Monday, July 7th, at Sts. Constantine & Helen Greek
Orthodox Church located at 37 Lake Parkway in Webster, MA. Funeral services to honor Freddy's extraordinary life will commence at 10:00 am, Tuesday morning, July 8th, at the church.

While Frederiki may no longer be physically by our side, her radiant spirit, unwavering values, and boundless love shall live on in our memories and hearts. Though we mourn her passing, let our tears not merely symbolize sorrow, but also honor a remarkable woman whose life brought so much joy, strength, and was an indelible light that brighten the lives of so many.

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