Verna Ruth Benter, age 86, of Seymour, passed away on Wednesday, July 1, 2026, at Schneck Medical Center, Seymour, surrounded by her loving family.

Verna was a devoted member of Emanuel Lutheran Church, Dudleytown, until her marriage to her beloved husband, Bill. Following their marriage, she became a faithful member of St. John’s Lutheran Church, Sauers, where she was an active member of the Ladies Aid at the church, and she dedicated many years of loyal service as a cook at St. John’s Lutheran School.

Verna also worked for several years at the Shirt Factory in Seymour and worked alongside her husband each day on their dairy and grain farm. In addition, she volunteered at the Lutheran Community Home, reflecting her lifelong dedication to her family, her faith, and serving others.

Family was at the heart of Verna’s life. She cherished every moment spent with her loved ones and especially enjoyed traveling and taking cruises with her husband, as well as gathering for picnics with her children, grandchildren and great- grandchildren. She also found great joy in sewing, baking cookies and pies, playing the piano, and playing Euchre. Verna was a longtime member of several Euchre clubs and treasured the friendships she made through them.

Born on August 27, 1939, in Seymour, Verna was the daughter of Everett and Clara (Otting) Claycamp, both of whom preceded her in death. On April 20, 1958, at Emanuel Lutheran Church, Dudleytown, she married Willard “Bill” Martin Benter, and he preceded her in death on October 12, 2021.

Survivors include one son, Steven Benter of Seymour; two daughters: Ruth (Jeff) Pollen of Seymour, and Sandra (Gary) Heideman of Seymour; four grandchildren: Erica (Darren) Paul, Drew (Lynsey) Heideman, Lauren (Eric) Cyliax, and Nathan Pollen; three great-grandchildren: Kaden Paul, Mason Paul, and Jordan Paul; sister-in-law, Luella Holle; and several nieces and nephews.

Verna was also preceded in death by one son, James Benter; two sisters and brother-in-law: Mary Claycamp, and Irene (Wilbur) Nieman; brothers-in-law and sisters-in-law: Fredrick (Ella) Benter, Harold (Wilma) Benter, Edna (Andy) Stuckwisch, Clara (Mike) Boyd, Mabel (Arthur) Pollert; sister-in-law, Esther Wessel; and brother-in-law, Lawrence Holle.

Funeral services for Verna Ruth Benter will be conducted at 11:00 a.m. on Tuesday, July 7, 2026, at St. John’s Lutheran Church, Sauers, with Pastor Craig Muhlbach officiating. Friends may call from 5:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. on Monday, July 6, 2026, at St. John’s Lutheran Church, Sauers, and from 10:00 a.m. until the time of the service at 11:00 a.m. on Tuesday, July 7, 2026, at the church.

Interment will follow at St. John’s Lutheran Church, Sauers Cemetery.

Memorials may be given to St. John’s Lutheran Church, Sauers, Trinity Lutheran High School, Lutheran Community Home, or donor’s choice.

Arrangements have been entrusted to the caring staff of Spurgeon Funeral Home, Inc.

Online memories and condolences may be given at www.spurgeonfh.com