Wanda Joyce Benefiel

Wanda Joyce Benefiel, 68, of Kansas City, Missouri passed away on January 22, 2023.

Wanda was born on October 2, 1954 in Kansas City, Kansas to John and Mildred Mansfield. She worked in the automotive industry with GM and Ford Motor Company for many years, as well as the working for the railroad. After retiring from Ford she moved to Sun City West, Arizona where she lived for 10+ years before moving back to the Kansas City area to be closer to family. Wanda was a proud member of the Elks Lodge, UAW Local 31 and Local 249. Wanda was a fierce and loyal friend. She was a Mother of just two, but many more called her “Mama” over the years. Her legacy was her work in dog rescue, where she spent countless hours saving animals in need. Wanda is preceded in death by her father, John Mansfield; grandson, Dakota Colin; and beloved Mastiff, Capone. She will be greatly missed by her daughters, Jacqui Nickole VanBebber and Brooklyn Renee (Chris) Brende; grandchildren; Maria Nickole VanBebber, Rayna Brooke VanBebber, Taylor Jo Kolbe, Zahara Belle Ray, Jersie Mersaidez VanBebber, Tristan Robert Brende and Lucas Christopher Brende; great grandchildren, Anthony, Giordano, Namito, and River; sister, Terry Suchernick; and many extended family and friends.

A Celebration of Life will be held at Terrace Park Funeral Home on Saturday, January 28, 2023, with visitation at 9:30am, followed by the funeral service at 10:30am. In honor of Wanda’s love of rescuing animals, contributions may be made to NAWS, Support NAWS - Northland Animal Welfare Society (NAWS) (pcnaws.org).