She became ill while working on her column about daily life and older people for the Toledo Blade. She later was taken to Toledo Hospital, where she died.

Benson was a journalist for 58 years and wrote more than 130 books along with countless short stories and newspaper articles. But she's best known for the Nancy Drew books that inspired and captivated generations of girls.

Benson wrote 23 of the original 30 stories under the pseudonym Carolyn Keene. More than 200-million books have been sold in 17 languages.

She is survived by a daughter. Funeral services will be private.