Avalonia Land Conservancy mourns the passing of Mildred “Mimi” Benson Borden

Avalonia Land Conservancy mourns the passing of Mildred “Mimi” Benson Borden, a lifelong North Stonington resident whose deep love for her family, community, and the land she called home will leave a lasting legacy.

Mimi’s connection to North Stonington stretched back generations. She grew up on her family’s farm and returned there with her husband, Brad Borden, in 1997. An avid gardener and Master Gardener, Mimi had a profound appreciation for the natural world and for the importance of preserving the rural character of the community she loved.

In 2012, Mimi and Brad made an extraordinary gift to Avalonia, donating 75 acres of their family property for permanent conservation. Today, that land is the Benedict Benson Preserve, named in honor of Mimi’s grandfather, the first Benson to own the property.

Their generosity ensured that a place woven into Mimi’s family history would remain protected long into the future. It’s a gift not only to Avalonia, but to the wildlife that depends upon the land and to generations of people who will experience and enjoy it.

Mimi died peacefully on August 11, 2026, at age 98, surrounded by family. We extend our deepest condolences to her family and friends and our enduring gratitude for the remarkable legacy she and Brad entrusted to Avalonia.

The land they loved remains protected. What a beautiful way to be remembered.