SeLena Rose Benson Rocha, 50, of Fredonia AZ, passed away on January 1st, 2025, leaving behind a legacy of laughter, love, and unwavering strength. Born on September 27, 1974, in Kanab to Claudina (Hopper) Teller and Milland Lomakena Sr., SeLena was later raised by her late father-figure, York Benson, whose last name she proudly took as her own.

From an early age, SeLena was known for her infectious energy and fierce determination. Growing up on the Kaibab Paiute Reservation, she was a force to be reckoned with—on and off the court. A standout athlete, SeLena was a force in basketball and a cheerleader, known for her legendary three-point shots. But she was also a woman who knew how to bring the fun, often leaving everyone around her laughing with her quick wit and charming silliness. If SeLena made you smile or laugh, she accomplished her goal—and she always did.

SeLena graduated from Fredonia High School in 1992, where her dedication to sports and school set the stage for her bright future. She went on to attend Yavapai Community College and Northern Arizona University (NAU), always striving to learn, grow, and share her knowledge with others. After college, SeLena returned to her roots on the reservation, where she continued to make an impact.

SeLena’s career was marked by an unshakable work ethic—something she credited to her late Uncle Tony and Aunt Delores Savala. Her first job was at Carmen’s Kitchen and Café, working alongside her sister, Carmen Bradley. From there, she worked in the North Kaibab Forest Service, later becoming the Kaibab Paiute Tribal Council Secretary. SeLena went on to serve at Grand Canyon West on the Hualapai Reservation, but the last 17 years of her life were spent at the Best Friends Animal Society in Kanab, Utah. SeLena’s love for animals and people made her the heart of the organization, where she was not just an employee but a beloved part of the community.

A passionate advocate for preserving the Southern Paiute language, SeLena was deeply involved in her tribe’s language program. She firmly believed in the power of heritage and culture, always pushing for future generations to honor and continue the traditions of their ancestors.

In 2017, SeLena found love with Kendrick Rocha Jr., and together, they built a family that filled her heart with pride. She gained three wonderful sons—Franko, Dontae, and Geovani—and a beloved grandson, Versaille. Her family was her world, and she poured all her love and care into them.

SeLena’s generous spirit extended far beyond her family. She had countless cousins, siblings, and friends across the Southern Paiute Nation and beyond, all of whom she cherished deeply. Whether it was sharing a hearty laugh, helping someone in need, or simply offering a kind word, SeLena left an imprint on everyone she met.

Her wish, in lieu of flowers, was for contributions to be made to the Shriners Children’s Hospital, a cause that was close to her heart and supported her belief in helping children worldwide.

SeLena is survived by her husband, Kendrick Rocha Jr., her sons Franko, Dontae, and Geovani, her grandson Versaille, her mother Claudina Teller, and her brother Bruce Benson, (Melissa Benson), Kaydin Benson, Quanah Benson, Neveah Benson, Heath Benson, Bryson Benson, and brother Orlando Benn, along with countless cousins, extended family, and friends.

SeLena’s light, humor, and love will live on in the hearts of all who knew her. She was more than a daughter, wife, mother, and friend—she was a force of nature who made the world a better place just by being in it. Rest in peace, SeLena. We will miss your laughter, your wisdom, and your boundless love.