Harriet Gibson Benner

Harriet Gibson Benner, 84, of Lakeland, Florida, and Bryson City, North Carolina, went to be with the Lord on February 2, 2022.

Harriet was born June 24, 1937, in Lakeland, Florida, to the late Horace Wood and Elizabeth Sneed Gibson. In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her husband, Webster (Sonny) Benner, Jr.; siblings, William Gibson, Allyn Gibson, Earleen Field, Robert Gibson, and Horace Gibson; niece, Daleyne Freeman; and nephews, Douglas Gibson, and Robert Gibson, II.

Harriet was a lifelong, faithful member of The Lakes Church (formerly First Baptist of Lakeland and Church at the Mall) in Lakeland, Florida, where she served as church librarian for more than 50 years. She enthusiastically encouraged reading, being an avid reader herself.

Mrs. Benner was also a participating member of Chapel of the Hills, a church plant in Bryson City, North Carolina.

Harriet was a graduate of Florida Southern College in Lakeland, Florida. She enjoyed participating in alumni events, especially when accompanied by her cousin-in-law, Archie McQuagge.

Harriet is survived by her son, Vaughn Benner and daughter-in-law Elizabeth Benner of Bryson City, North Carolina; step-granddaughter, Lara Park (Yunsu); step-grandson, Nathaniel Falcon (Jackie); great-grandchildren, Brianna Falcon, Miranda Falcon, Ian Park, and Felix Park; brother, Samuel Gibson; nephews, Benjamin Gibson (Toni), Samuel Gibson, Jr., (Shirley), and Joel Gibson; nieces, Elizabeth Chappell (Jesse), and Earleen Beadnell (Tom); cousins, Suzanne Nagy (Steven), and Joel McQuagge (Lisa); and many great-nieces, great-nephews, and cousins. Harriet loved her family and delighted in gathering with them and sharing family history.

A memorial service will be held on Saturday, February 19, 2022, at 11:00 AM, at The Lakes Church in Lakeland, Florida, with Pastor Walt Dearie officiating. Lunch will be served following the service.

In lieu of flowers, memorials can be made to The Lakes Church in Lakeland, Florida; or Chapel of the Hills, 1601 Highway 28 South, Bryson City, North Carolina, 28713.

Crawford / Ray Funeral Home and Cremation Service is honored to be caring for the Benner family and words of comfort may be shared at www.CrawfordRay.com