Vera Lou Benedict

Vera Lou Benedict (McCormick), age 89, passed away on April 6, 2026 at her home, surrounded by her family.

Vera was born on November 4, 1936, in Goreville, Illinois, to Drew W. and Mabel (Ollis) McCormick. She married the love of her life, Hubert Lee Benedict, on December 16, 1955, in New Haven, Indiana. They shared 51 wonderful years together until his passing on April 15, 2007.

Vera worked as a CPA beginning in 1967 and later operated her own income‑tax business from 1981 until 2009. She was a devoted member of Angelville Community Church in Pittsburg, Illinois, and an active participant in the Today’s Homemakers Unit of the Williamson County Homemakers Extension.

Vera found joy in the simple, beautiful things of life. She loved tending to her flowers—every kind—and spent countless hours crocheting, sewing, and creating crafts. She also enjoyed collecting butterflies and angels, treasures that reflected her gentle spirit.

Vera is survived by her children, Linda (Steve) Keith, Ricky (Gaye) Benedict, and Keith (Polianna) Benedict; her grandchildren, Justin (Alicia) Elders, Jason Elders, Jesse (Tori) Benedict, Kristina (Jared) Merrit, Thomas (Bridget) Benedict, and Whitney (Josh) Teal; and her great‑grandchildren, Dylan Elders, Anna Rose Elders, Summerlee Elders, Troy Benedict, Tucker Benedict, Lynlee Benedict, Micah Merrit, Paxton Teal, and Preston Teal. She is also survived by her brother, Hubert E. McCormick, many beloved nieces and nephews, and a special niece, Brenda Lazorchek.

She was preceded in death by her parents, Drew and Mabel; her husband, Hubert; her granddaughter, Destiny; and her siblings, James Leslie McCormick, Flodene (Ray) Shadowens, Kenneth Simmons, Velma (Homer) Robinson, Alene (Henry) Barringer, Albert McCormick, Della (Claude) Barwick, Nella (Clarence) Crites, and Ella (Norman) Mullinix.

Funeral arrangements are entrusted to Blue Funeral Home under the direction of Binkley‑Ross. A visitation will be held on Wednesday, April 8, 2026 at Blue Funeral Home, 1704 N. Court St., Marion, Illinois, from 11:00 AM to 1:00 PM. Funeral services will begin at 1:00 PM with Pastor Kevin McNeely and Pastor Josh Colson officiating. Burial will follow at McKinney Chapel Cemetery, south of Marion.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Angelville Community Church. Envelopes will be available at the funeral home or may be mailed to c/o Binkley‑Ross Funeral Home, PO Box 39, Marion, IL 62959.