The North Carolina Industrial Commission is saddened to share the loss of one of our valued employees, Legal Assistant Michele Gaye Brunner Benton who passed away on July 10, 2005. Michele had worked in the Claims Administration Section for five and a half years before becoming the legal assistant to Deputy Commissioner Philip Baddour. She earned her paralegal degree from Coastal Carolina Community College and was thrilled that she would use these skills in her new position. Michele assisted many claimants, adjusters and attorneys during her tenure here. Because of her genuine concern for others she would always go the extra mile. She freely shared her love for cooking, crafts and life.
Her life partner, Donald Reece of Raleigh; her father Frank E. Brunner of Jacksonville, North Carolina; and her three brothers, Frank, Scott and Stephen, survive Michele.
Her outgoing personality, friendship, smile, and laughter will be greatly missed.