Betty M. Benson

Betty Mae Benson was born June 27, 1941 in Alva, Oklahoma, daughter of Erich and Dora (Terwort) Wenzel.  She passed away peacefully on January 19, 2026 in Miami, Oklahoma at the age of 84, following a courageous battle with Alzheimer’s.  

Betty was preceded in death by her parents, Erich and Dora Wenzel; siblings: Richard Wenzel and Connie Boggs; her sons, David and Terry Smith; her son-in-law, Jerry Rathgeber; and her step-great-granddaughters, Addison and Allison Schrant.

Betty leaves behind a loving family who will cherish her memory: her devoted husband, Bill; her daughter, Brenda Rathgeber; her stepdaughter, Rebecca Schrant and husband, Kelly; and her sister, Bonnie Fischer.  She is also survived by her grandchildren: Natasha Mueller and Tyler Rathgeber and wife, Becca; step-grandchildren: Tyler Schrant and wife, Tylin, and Dustin Schrant and wife, Emily; as well as her great-grandchildren: Abigail, Aiden, Austen, Adrienne and Zakk; and step-great-grandchildren: Barrett, Carson, Emmett and Grayson; and many nieces and nephews.

Betty’s warmth, kindness and dedication to her family will be deeply missed by all who knew her.  She leaves behind a legacy of love and cherished memories that will continue to inspire those who were fortunate enough to have known her.  

A celebration of life was held at 11:00 a.m. Friday, January 30, 2026 at Prairie Rose Funeral Home in Anthony with Pastor Kent Olds officiating. 

Memorials may be made payable to Spring Grove Cemetery and can be sent in care of Prairie Rose Funeral Home, 602 E. Main St., Anthony, Kansas 67003.  Online condolences can be left at www.prairierosefuneralhomes.com