Benson Commissioner Maxine Peacock Holley Dies After Battle With Cancer

BENSON, N.C. — The Town of Benson is mourning the loss of Commissioner Maxine Peacock Holley, who died Saturday, July 11, after a prolonged and courageous battle with cancer.

Holley served the community as a Commissioner At-Large and was most recently re-elected to the Benson Board of Commissioners in November 2025.

Mayor Dr. R. Max Raynor Jr. remembered Holley as a devoted public servant whose commitment to the town and its residents left a lasting impact.

“On behalf of the Town of Benson, I want to express our deepest condolences to Commissioner Holley’s family, friends, and all who knew and loved her,” Raynor said. “Commissioner Holley gave tirelessly of herself to make Benson a better place for every resident. Her voice, her heart, and her commitment to our town will be deeply missed.”

“Commissioner Holley’s long-standing service to Benson left an indelible mark. Her devoted service has made the town even better,” the mayor said. “She was known throughout the community for her devotion to her family and to the people of Benson.”

The Town of Benson is asking residents to keep Holley’s family and loved ones in their thoughts and prayers during this difficult time.

To honor her service to the community, flags at all Town of Benson-owned properties will be flown at half-staff, and a moment of silence will be observed during the next meeting of the Benson Board of Commissioners.