Bernice (Coleman) Benman

Bernice Benman, 87, of Elkhart died July 21, 2020 at Elkhart General Hospital. Mrs. Bernice (Coleman) Benman was born September 19, 1932 in Hughes, Arkansas. She was the third of twelve children born to Jessie and Hattie (Duvall) Coleman who both precede her in death. She was the mother of two children, Kenneth Coleman and Linda Faye Coleman, who both precede her in death.

She married the love of her life, Ephraim Benman, on November 12, 1955. He departed this life on February 6, 2010. Mrs. Bernice was a lifelong member of Pilgrim Rest. She absolutely LOVED her church family. She was also known in the community as the “Candy Lady’ for over 30 years. She donated all proceeds to her church. She served in many capacities in the church, including the Usher Board, Pastor’s Aide, and as a Sunday School Teacher. Bernice worked for Elkhart Community Schools as a bus driver for students with special needs from January 1, 1973 until declining health forced her to retire on December 20, 1991.

Bernice leaves to cherish her memory John Nave, her brother-in-law, whom she raised as her own son along with her two other children; five grandchildren, nine great-grandchildren; four sisters; two brothers; and a host of nieces , nephews, cousins and many friends.

Visitation for Bernice will take place 10AM Friday, July 31, 2020 at Pilgrim Rest Baptist Church with a private family service to follow. Burial will be at Prairie Street Cemetery.

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