Shirley Benton

Shirley Benton, born on August 20, 1927, in Lyman, Nebraska, was called to her Creator’s side on July 14, 2025, in Topeka, Kansas. She lived a long life full of tenacity, thoughtfulness, and a soft spoken spirit that touched those who knew her.

Shirley graduated from Topeka High School in 1945. For some time after, she worked for Morrell’s Meat Packing Plant. There, Shirley joined the Morrell’s Girls Chorus.

Shirley was also a member of the Potwin Presbyterian Church since 1946. Dedicated to putting her faith into action through service and fellowship, she served as a member of the Dorcas Women’s Group. Shirley played the piano and later encouraged her daughter to learn to play.

Shirley married Clifford Spaulding on New Year’s Eve, 1947, then gave birth to her daughter Sharon in 1951. She began working at Topeka Mill and Elevator around 1960, part time, eventually working there fulltime. 

She enjoyed playing Pitch at gatherings with the Spauldings. She could often be found lost in the pages of mystery novels, or watching her favorite shows, Bonanza and Perry Mason. Each morning, Shirley worked crossword puzzles over breakfast. Her husband Clifford passed away in October of 1978.

Shirley married Frank Benton in July of 1981, and shortly after, retired. She and Frank purchased a fifth-wheel camper and traveled south to Brownsville, Texas, during the winter months, then camped at Lake Perry, Kansas, during the warmer seasons. The two traveled to many destinations making friends and arrangements for future trips along the way.

Shirley is remembered as becoming an outspoken spitfire, with a knack for voicing her opinions fearlessly. At Topeka Presbyterian Manor, Shirley was known to be quite social. She had a unique talent for finding the perfect gift for the people she loved, making holidays and occasions special. Her dedication to giving was a testament to her thoughtfulness, kindness, and faith.

Her second husband, Frank, passed away in December 2017.

Pastor Randy Lesseski had a beautiful spiritual connection with Shirley. He brought much comfort and solace to her life.

Shirley adored her family. Her survivors include her daughter, Sharon (Harold) Huskey, stepson Tim (Priscilla) Benton, and stepdaughter Marie (Scott) Nightengale. She also leaves behind her beloved brother, Gene (Pat) Miesse, her grandchildren, Tisha Duncan, Mark (Angie) Manning, Nick Manning, Trevor (Ashli) Benton, Sarah Gold, Jordan Gold, Dylan Gold, Wyatt Nightengale, and five great grandchildren, Mason Morris, Maddox Manning, Dominik Benton, Lilly Benton, and Ryleigh Benton.

She will be reunited with loved ones who were called before her, including her mother and stepfather, Lavina “Bobby” and Ervin “Zim” Zimmerman, her father and stepmother, Richard and Virginia Miesse, her first husband, Clifford Spaulding, and her second husband, Frank Benton.

Shirley’s hugs and kisses will be missed by all, especially the staff at Topeka Presbyterian Manor. Her legacy of giving, faith, and kindness lives on in her family, and those who knew her.

Memorial contributions in Shirley's memory can be made to Midland Care Hospice House, 200 SW Frazier Cir, Topeka, KS 66606 or Helping Hands Humane Society 5720 SW 21st St, Topeka, KS 66604.

A Funeral Service will take place at 11:00am Saturday July 26, 2025 at Mount Hope Cemetery Chapel with a visitation the hour prior. Burial will follow the service at Mount Hope Cemetery.