Titauna Monique Benton—known to many as Candi—was a warrior in every sense of the word. Her strength, resilience, and radiant spirit touched the lives of everyone she encountered. She wasn’t just a sister, daughter, mother, cousin, or friend—she was a beacon of light and love, fiercely dedicated to her family and her faith.

In February 2023, Candi gave birth to her youngest son, Brendan. Shortly after, while breastfeeding, she noticed something unusual—milk was only coming from her right side, and her left breast was swollen. Doctors initially diagnosed her with mastitis, a common condition in nursing mothers, and prescribed antibiotics. But when the swelling didn’t go down, Candi didn’t stop asking questions.

Her persistence led to more tests, none of which detected anything alarming. Eventually, she was referred to a surgeon. During what was expected to be a routine procedure, the surgeon noticed something abnormal and performed a biopsy. A few days later, in July 2023, everything changed.

Candi was diagnosed with breast cancer. On August 5th, she and her family received the devastating news: Stage 4 metastatic inflammatory breast cancer. The cancer had already spread. But Candi, true to her spirit, told the doctor, “I don’t want to hear anything else. I’m going to fight.” And she did—fiercely.

Through every chemo treatment, every hospital stay, every exhausting moment, she showed up with faith, laughter, and light. She encouraged fellow patients, lifted spirits online, and never let cancer steal her joy. Her motto was her daily declaration:

“I’m good. I’m fighting. I have faith. This is my year to win.”

Even as she faced unimaginable challenges, Candi never stopped thinking of her children. She could no longer work and wasn’t eligible for new life insurance after her diagnosis, but she still saved what she could from her disability income—always planning, always protecting.

Candi was a loving spouse to Brendan and the proud mother of seven beautiful children:

Sierra (23), Sequan (21), Shaun (19), Sanyah (18), Skylar (7), Brendan (2), and her adopted cousin Harmonee (6).

She had a special gift with children and spent many years working with Fairfax County Public Schools as a SACC teacher, where she was affectionately known as Ms. Monique. Her students, their families, and her coworkers were all touched by her kindness, patience, and genuine care.

On July 16, 2025, Candi developed pneumonia. Just six days later, on July 22, God called her home. Now, we are asking for your help.

Candi poured her heart into her family and community. She deserves a beautiful homegoing celebration, and her children deserve support as they face life without the one who loved them most. We are raising funds to help cover funeral expenses and provide some stability for her children during this time of grief and transition.

If you are able, please consider donating. CashApp: $BentonFamilyFund or through her GoFundme fundraiser. No amount is too small. If you cannot give, we ask that you please share this story and keep the Benton and Brash families in your prayers.

Thank you for standing with us as we honor Candi’s life—a life lived with strength, purpose, and unconditional love.

With love and gratitude,

The Benton and Brash Families