Anita L. Benz

Anita L. Benz, 78, of Belleville, IL, passed away on Monday February 24, 2025, at her home.

Anita’s life was dedicated to her children, grandchildren and the Lord.

She was born in Ohio and lived in the country outside of Cincinnati. She later became a military spouse and traveled all over the country.

Her first career was as a beautician and then she moved on and became a driver. She drove the men and women of the U.S. military to the USO at Lambert Airport in St. Louis, MO. She moved on from there and became a bus driver for Bi-State/Metro Bus. While working all those jobs, she was also a substitute teacher for many local schools.

She had a bachelor’s degree in political science and was a talented seamstress. She belonged to many different prayer groups. In her spare time, she enjoyed the competition of bowling, pinochle and loved to play bingo.

Anita was preceded in death by her parents, Howard L. and Clara E. (Schneider) Benz.

Left to cherish her memory are her children: Jeffrey (Cara) Barrows, David Barrows, Rebecca (Cory) Gabriel and Catherine Barrows; her sister, Barbara Bradford; her grandchildren: Cynthia (Berrae) Meixsell, Brantly (Felicia) Barrows, Nicholas Gabriel, Cadence Gabriel, Samantha (Lane Hale) Schlegel, Cory (Alicia) Gabriel, Jr., Shayla Gabriel, Bryan Barrows, Emily Barrows, AJ Graham, Asia Graham, Avery Graham, Oliver Graham and Jasmine Hatton; nine great-grandchildren, nieces, nephews, extended family and many beloved friends.

The family has chosen to plan services themselves which will be private.

Hoffen Funeral Home is assisting the family.