Benita Owens Letterman was born September 5, 1923, in Springfield, MO. She departed this life, peacefully, December 15, 2012, at the age of 89 years.

Benita was the only daughter of William H. Owens and his wife Dorothy Clough, who passed away when Benita was three years old. Benita and her older brother, Nile became the elder siblings to four brothers and three sisters when William married Lula Hulgan.

She was preceded in death by her brothers Charles, Nile, and Paul Owens. She was also preceded in death by two sisters, Louise Baxter and Bertha Chandler. She is survived by two brothers, Russell Owens and Otto Owens, and one sister, Elizabeth Brewster.

Benita was married to Harry Letterman, and had two sons and one daughter. She is survived by her son, Larry M. Letterman, and daughter, Anita Hanson. She suffered the loss of her oldest son, Lannie, in 2008. Benita was blessed with 8 grandchildren, 6 great-grandchildren with another due in January 2013. “Aunt Benita” also was blessed with numerous nieces and nephews, many of whom knew her love and correction.

Benita worked in the Springfield area most of her life, at Royal McBee, Crazy Cecil’s, and McBee Binders. She traveled extensively, visiting Hong Kong, Thailand, Singapore, London, and much of the United States. She never tired of new adventures, and seeing the world. She was fearless. Benita was a tireless worker, excellent seamstress, fabulous cook, and devoted mother. Her beautiful quilts are treasures to us all. Her strength and endurance never failed, and she never gave up. She left us only in God’s perfect timing.

Visitation will be Thursday, December 20, 2012, 1:00 p.m., at Greenlawn Funeral Home North in Springfield, MO. Funeral service will follow at 2:00 p.m., with burial in Greenlawn Memorial Gardens.