Irene Marie Benefield

Irene Marie Benefield, 70, went to be with her Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ, on June 27, 2021. She was born on September 6, 1950 in Bay City, Texas to Allen E. and Ernestine Mae Dabelgott (once a Texas girl, always a Texas girl). After graduation from high school, she was a beautician until the birth of her daughter in 1985. She put away the scissors and comb to be a full time wife, mother, and homemaker.

Irene was a faithful and active member of Parkview Baptist Church where she served in many ministries, including the choir, nursery, Awana program, and the women’s ministry.

She loved the Lord and His church. She will be remembered for her sweet, gentle spirit and her beautiful smile.

Irene is survived by her loving husband of 41 years, C.J. Benefield, her daughter, Christy

Searcy (husband Sterling), granddaughter Eden Searcy, sister Barbara Freily (husband JB), sister Mary Jane Dabelgott, sister-in-law Terry Dabelgott, sister-in-law Alice Whitney (husband Mick), sister-in-law Sharron Kelsey (husband Cal), and many nephews and nieces.

Irene is preceded in death by her parents, Allen and Ernestine Dabelgott, brother Daniel Dabelgott, and sister Geneva Rader.

There will be a celebration-of-life service at Parkview Baptist Church, 509 Parkview Place, Lakeland, Fl 33805 on Friday, July 23, 2021 at 11:00 A.M. (visitation with the family at 10:30 A.M.).

In lieu of flowers, donations in Irene’s memory can be made to Parkview Baptist Church, women’s ministry.

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