Marc Benoit Léger, 74, a beloved husband, father and brother, prominent figure in Moncton's hairstyling community, passed away on April 18, 2024, at the Dr. Georges-L.-Dumont University Hospital Centre. Born in Memramcook to the late Benoit and Lorraine (Després) Léger, Marc leaves behind a legacy of creativity, generosity, and joy.
His passion for hairstyling led him to establish the renowned Oasis MarcBenoi Hair Salon. His journey began as a teenager where he would pay his siblings to do their hair. In 1971, he opened his first hair salon "Le salon Marc Benoit" on Main Street, Moncton. Seeking excellence, he traveled to England in 1975 to study under Vidal Sassoon at the esteemed Sassoon Academy, honing his craft. Returning home, he expanded his salon's reach, culminating in the acquisition of his first building on Cameron Street in 1983, rebranding it as Oasis MarcBenoi.
A pioneer in his field, Marc joined the Hair Arts & Sciences organization in 1984, becoming a master judge in national and international hairstyling competitions. His expertise garnered him accolades, including silver and gold awards in 1989 and 1993, respectively, and a lifetime achievement award in 1997. For years as part of the ISO Design Team, he travelled North America teaching, mentoring and performing in hair shows.
Beyond his professional achievements, Marc was known for his vibrant personality. He was completely devoted to his family and was a loyal friend. He cherished hosting gatherings, where laughter, good food, and camaraderie flowed freely. A lover of reading, sunbathing, and Jamaican adventures, Marc's zest for life was infectious. His legendary generosity, baking skills (especially his famous scones), and dance floor enthusiasm endeared him to many.
Marc was predeceased by his brother Médard and is survived by his loving wife, Marthe Doucet Léger, his partner in crime; his children: Xavier (Rosalynn Carter) and Marie-Dominique; siblings: Francine (Alfred LeBlanc), Denise (Jean-Marc Collin), Marcia (Roger Cormier), and Roger (Shauna Curley); along with aunts, nieces, nephews, cousins, and countless friends.
The family would like to thank Dr. Cédric Wybouw, Dr. Ève St Hilaire and her team, the Oncology and Emergency Departments of the Dr. Georges-L.-Dumont UHC, Moncton, Dr. Elsawy, Rachel Nielsen NP and the Oncology Department of the Halifax VG Hospital for the extraordinary care given to Marc. The family would also like to thank Dr. Ryan Coster, Ford's pharmacy, Lila and Jeff, Annemieke and Peter, Elizabeth and Jonathan, Denise Gallant, Marise Surette, Francesco and Severine and Cecil Long.
Family and friends are invited to visit the Frenette Funeral Home, 88 Church Street, Moncton, from where the funeral service will be held on Friday, April 26th at 11 a.m. Visiting hours will be held on Thursday, April 25th, from 6 to 9 p.m.
In Marc’s memory, flowers can be sent to the funeral home, or donations can be made to the CHU Dumont Foundation (oncology), the Food Depot Alimentaire, or a charity of your choice.
Condolences and donations can be made at www.frenettefuneralhome.com.