Iva Jean Benskin

Iva Jean Benskin, 95, of Wellsville passed away on September 3rd, 2025. Iva was surrounded by her granddaughters and son when she passed peacefully.

Iva was born on July 22, 1930, to the parents of Albert Sr. and Rene (Craig) Folta of Wellsville, MO. Iva lived her whole life in the Wellsville/Martinsburg community. On September 9th, 1949, Iva married Wilbur (Sonny) Benskin of Wellsville. They had three children: Dave Benskin, Beverly JoAnn Benskin and Tammy Benskin.

Iva was known for her love of country music, dancing, playing bingo/cards, church and camping. The years might have been climbing, but Iva moved faster. Her 95 years were full to the very end. She never turned down a good card game, a Saturday night dance or the opportunity to have family and friends over. If there was an empty chair at the table, Iva Jean insisted that you sit and enjoy the company. Her wind chimes were a welcoming sound to her home and heart. Iva's energy has left many memories for her grandchildren to hold close and to share with others.

Iva is survived and missed by her son Dave and wife Jane Benskin of Wellsville; three granddaughters: Michelle and husband Greg Sumy of Boonville; Tracy and husband Scott Walton of Vandalia and Talia Benskin and partner, Jason of Columbia. She has five great granddaughters: Alexis Jones of Boonville, Alexandria and husband Paul Washington of Madison, AL, Lauren and husband Lucas Shelton of Harrisonville; Brooke and husband Hunter Jackson of Bury St Edmund, England; and Colby Walton of Vandalia. Iva was lucky enough to have great- great- grandchildren, all of whom she loved and they loved her her: Malakai & Aniya Jones, Terrance Washington, Amelia Shelton, Lincoln Jackson and Axel Walton. Iva has many nieces and nephews that all have fond memories of "Aunt Iva".

Iva is proceeded in death by her husband, Wilbur (Sonny) Benskin, her daughter Beverly JoAnn Benskin and daughter Tammy Benskin. Iva had four brothers: Henry (Bud) Folta, Albert Jr Folta, Harold (Hap) Folta and two sisters: Rosalie (Folta) Riefle and Dorothy (Folta) Johnson.

Iva's biggest life role was that of "caretaker". Whether it was taking care of someone's laundry, fixing dinner, cleaning a house or running errands, she did it with a smile and gratitude for the opportunity. Grandma's number one accomplishment was taking care of Beverly and grandma did it until the end. She was so proud when Bev became her porch mate in 2016. There may have been thin walls between them, but she always knew what was going on next door. Knowing that she completed her biggest life accomplishment makes her passing easier for her family and friends.

Iva Jean Benskin was a member of the Church of the Resurrection in Wellsville, VWF Auxiliary Member and Lifetime member of the Country Fiddler and Music Association. Donations can be made to the VFW.

A graveside service will be September 27th at 1:00 p.m. at the Resurrection Cemetery in Wellsville with Deacon Deimeke. All is welcome to share a memory with us during this time.