Bettie Magdalene Benke

Bettie Magdalene Benke, 91, went home to be with the Lord, Sunday, February 12, 2017, at Westbrook Terrace Assisted Living. She was born on April 15, 1925, in Ponca City, Okla., the baby of eight children to the late Joseph Sydney and Hattie Garfield (Robinson) Cook. She was united in marriage on February 17, 1941, to Walter J. Benke in Jefferson City, who preceded her in death in 2013. Bettie was a Buyer at Czarlinsky's Clothing Store and was a Real Estate Agent. She hand painted porcelain, taught others the art of painting and was an avid gardener. Bettie was a member of Concord Baptist Church. Bettie's greatest love was her missionary work, she loved to talk about Jesus and his Word, it didn't matter if it were across the world or across the table. She is survived by her children: Darla Huffine and John Thomas Benke (Joan), both of Jefferson City; grandchildren: Jeff Huffine (Debbie), Kelley Gardner (Brent), John Benke (Nikki), Sam Benke and Peter Benke; 17 great-grandchildren, six great-great-grandchildren as well as other family members and friends. Along with her parents and husband, she was preceded in death by a son-in-law: Dwayne Huffine in 2016; grandchildren: Tim Huffine in 1994 and Clarice Benke in 2015; and a great-grandson; Alexander Benke in 2013. Friends will be received from 10:00 a.m. to 11:00 a.m. Wednesday, February 15, 2017, at Concord Baptist Church. Funeral Services will be held at 11:00 a.m. Wednesday, February 15, 2017, at Concord Baptist Church, with Rev. Dr. Monte Shinkle officiating. Interment will follow in Centertown Cemetery. Expressions of sympathy may be made to the charity of donor's choice. Arrangements are under the direction of HOUSER-MILLARD Funeral Directors, 2613 West Main Street, Jefferson City, MO 65109. (573) 636-3838. Condolences may be left for the family online at www.millardfamilychapels.com