Vera Hartman Dew Benefiel

Vera Hartman Dew Benefiel entered into eternal rest on April 10, 2026. She was 99.

Vera was born on January 10, 1927, in DeLand, Florida, to Fred and Celesta Hartman. She was raised in Anderson, Indiana, where she graduated from Anderson High School in 1943. She later attended Ball State University, studying business.

Throughout her life, Vera pursued several careers and was known for her strong work ethic and independence. She was a licensed real estate broker and owned and operated Dew‑Mears Realty. She retired at the age of 62. She enjoyed traveling, reading, watching television, and playing games with her family, especially euchre.

Vera was a longtime and devoted member of Central Christian Church, joining in 1952. During her many years of service, she served as an elder and deacon and was active as an officer in the Christian Women’s Fellowship and the Senior Lunch Group.

Vera is survived by her daughter, Karen Dew (Howard) Spitzmesser; her grandchildren, Stacie (George) Shields, Andrea Hewitt, Caitlin Hewitt, Sage (Ashton) Hewitt, Trey (Maycee) Hewitt, Olivia Hewitt, and Sophia Hewitt; and her great‑grandchildren, Mackenzie Rhodes and her four daughters, Ethan Hewitt, Zoie Hewitt, Aiden Hewitt, Zayveon Boone, Jerry Cole Stephenson, Axeton Hewitt, and Trai Hewitt.

She was preceded in death by her parents, Fred and Celesta Hartman; her daughter, Janet Mae Dew; her granddaughter, Michelle Hewitt; her former husband and friend, Jim Benefiel; and her brother, Robert Hartman.

Vera will be remembered for her determination, independence, and unwavering sense of who she was.

Vera’s family would like to extend a special thank you to Paradigm Heath Hospice for their care and kindness.

Per Vera’s wishes there will be no visitation. A graveside service is pending.  In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the Alzheimer’s Association or your favorite charity.