Mernie D. (Bennett) VanMeter

Mernie Dorcas (Bennett) VanMeter, age 91 of Petersburg, WV passed away on Tuesday, October 1, 2024 at her residence surrounded by her family while under the care of hospice.

Mernie was born on March 12, 1933 in Cabins, WV and was a daughter of the late Dale Bennett and Elva (Turner) Bennett. 

 In addition to her parents, Mernie was preceded in death by her husband, Clinton E. VanMeter in 1972; an infant son, Ralph VanMeter; her companion, Jesse W. Kuykendall in 2004; three brothers, Otis Bennett, Austin Bennett and David “Bull” Bennett, son-in-law, Derwin “Bim” Kimble. She was the last surviving member of her immediate family. 

Mernie is survived by two daughters, Mernie “Liz” Kimble and Barbara VanMeter, both of Petersburg, WV; several nieces and nephews including Gladys Hedrick, Jenny Dayton and Jim Bennett and a special caregiver, Patsy Yokum.

 Mernie was a loving mother and friend to all who knew her. She faithfully attended the Lighthouse Community Church.

 Mernie’s family will receive family and friends Thursday, October 3, 2024 from 2-4 and 7-9 PM at Schaeffer Funeral Home.

 Funeral service will be Friday, October 4, 2024 at 11 AM in the chapel of Schaeffer Funeral Home with the Rev. Robert E. Rexrode officiating. 

 Interment will be in Lahmansville Cemetery.

 Memorials may be made to the VanMeter family, 54 Burgess Hollow Road, Petersburg, WV 26847.

To send flowers to the family, please visit our floral store.