Katherine R. Benton

December 17, 2025

Katherine R. Benton, 88, of Lancaster, passed away peacefully at her home on Wednesday, December 17, 2025. Born in Baltimore, MD, she was the daughter of the late Henry J. and Marguerite E. (Heller) Ripperger. She was the loving wife of Dr. Alan W. Benton for over 64 years.

After graduating from Eastern High School and receiving her administrative certification, Katherine worked at Olin Mathieson Chemical Company in Baltimore and New York City, and, later, in the 1990’s, worked as a legislative assistant to Maryland State Senator William H. Amoss. Outside of her professional life, Katherine was a skilled cook and baker, making delicious desserts for her family to try, like her lemon meringue pie and her chocolate eclairs. She had great attention to detail, and whether it was her cooking, her sense of style, or her interior design, Katherine always made sure it was perfect. She cared deeply about her family, especially as “Grandmere” to her grandchildren, doting on and spoiling them often. She will be remembered for her laugh, her dedication to whatever she set her mind to, and her love for life.

Katherine is preceded in passing by her parents; and her daughter, Miriam C. Benton. She is survived by her husband; her children, Heller (William) Batton and Sara Benton (John Gannone); her grandchildren Ian and Lillian Batton, and Jack Gannone; and numerous nieces and nephews, as well as, grand-nieces and grand-nephews.

Services will be private at the convenience of the family. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Bangor Episcopal Church, where both Katherine and Alan were long- time members, at 2099 Main St, Narvon, PA 17555, or by visiting bangorepiscopal.org