Lorraine (East) Benner Huffman Dean

Lorraine Benner Huffman Dean, age 92 of Circleville, Ohio, went home to be with her Lord this past Friday morning, June 12th, 2020.  Lorraine was born in Springfield, Ohio on November 19th, 1927, the first of two children born to Clark and Viola (Sweeney) East.  Lorraine was married to Ora “Brady” Benner, with whom she had four sons; Steven Jay, Donald Fay, Gerald Ray and William A.  She was a member at Circleville First Church of Christ in Christian Union, and then at Campus Church of Christ in Christian Union, where she served both as pianist and Sunday school teacher. 

Lorraine was employed for several years at Washington Township Elementary School and then at Circleville Bible College (now Ohio Christian University) where she served as secretary to the Registrar, and later as Registrar.  Lorraine was not only a gifted piano player at her Church, but played for many different individuals and groups in Christian service throughout the area.  As well, she was a gifted writer and artist.  After the death of her first husband, Lorraine married Bill Huffman in March of 1980.  Following Bill’s passing in February of 1997, Lorraine married Robert (Bob) Dean in June 2000, who passed away in February of 2009.  Lorraine subsequently returned to her home in Circleville, and during the following 11 years, as her health began to decline, was cared for by her sons and their families... but especially by her devoted son Gary, who, in these latter years became her faithful primary caregiver.  Lorraine had the privilege of having three husbands and ultimately a large family.  But her greatest love was her Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ.  Lorraine was preceded in death by her husbands: Ora (Brady) Benner, Billy Huffman, and Robert (Bob) Dean; sons, Steven Benner and Donald Benner; brother, James East; half-brother, Frank Haines; and half-sister, Betty Johnson. 

She is survived by sons Gerald Benner and William (Becky) Benner; daughter-in-laws Cheryl Benner, Suzanna Benner and Lynn Benner; stepsons Billy (Karen) Huffman, Tim (Marie) Huffman and Gary (Naomi) Dean; step-daughter Kathy (Gary) Doberstyn; a host of grandchildren, great grandchildren, step-grandchildren and great step-grandchildren, 3 great great step-grandchildren; as well as 3 half-sisters, Joann Speakes, Dixie (Larry) Teeters and Patty Plummer; along with a number of nieces, nephews and friends. 

Due to COVID 19, social distancing will be encouraged. Online condolences can be made to www.wellmanfuneralhomes.com.

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