LaVonne Agnes Benson

LaVonne Agnes Smith was born on October 21, 1934, in Lake Mills, Iowa. She was the ninth of ten children born to John and Agnes Smith. Growing up in a large family, LaVonne developed a strong sense of camaraderie and resilience.

She attended school in Nora Springs, Iowa, where she became an active participant in extracurricular activities. As a student, LaVonne marched as a majorette in the school’s marching band and was also a member of the girls’ basketball team during her junior and senior high years. She graduated from Nora Springs High School in 1952.

LaVonne met her husband, Vincent, on a blind date, and the two were married in 1955 in Minneapolis. The couple welcomed their first child, Janice, in 1956, followed by John in 1964, and Jim in 1966. Throughout their early years together, the family lived in Minnesota, Florida, and New York as Vince pursued his military career. After Vince retired from the military in 1968, the family eventually settled in Carthage.

LaVonne was preceded in death by her husband Vince in 1992, as well as her siblings Bud, Ila, Muriel, Oren, Dean, Donald, and Roger. She passed away peacefully at home, surrounded by her children and close friends, on Thursday, November 6, 2025.

Arrangements are under the direction of Ozark Memorial Park of Joplin, MO