Teresa Matkins Benton, 72, of Morganton, NC, passed away on Friday, March 15, 2024. Born in Wilmington, NC on February 26, 1952, she was the daughter of the late George T. Matkins, Sr. and Virginia Hammond Matkins.
Teresa graduated from Morganton High School and earned her bachelor’s degree from Gardner Webb. She was a teacher with Burke County Schools where she taught kindergarten and first grade at Oak Hill Elementary for 30 years and was a member of First Baptist Church in Morganton.
Teresa is survived by her husband of 50 plus years, Barry C. Benton; sons, Aaron Benton (Jessica Hasson) and Ashley Benton (Marcia Rector); grandchildren, Kayla Burgess (Jacob), Madison Benton (Riley), and Kinsey Benton, Makenzie Hasson, and a sister-in-law Ruth Matkins, Len and Katrina of Granite Falls; half-brothers, Randy Benton and Larry Wilson of Morganton; half-sisters, Dedra Thielen and Lisa Benton of Morganton; and her lifetime best friend, Karen Robinson of Valdese.
In addition to her parents, George T. Matkins, Sr. and Virginia Hammond Matkins, Teresa was preceded in death by a brother; George T. Matkins, Jr.
The family will receive friends from 11am until 1pm, Tuesday, March 19, 2024 at First Baptist Church of Morganton. The funeral will be held at 1pm in the church, with Rev Dr. Thomas A. Bland, Jr. officiating. Burial will follow at Burke Memorial Park.
Memorial contribution may be made to First Baptist Church children’s music programs or Burke County Friends for Animals.
Sossoman Funeral Home and Crematory Center is assisting the family with the arrangements.
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Dear Barry, Aaron and Ashley, My heart is heavy learning of Teresa’s passing. She loved the three of you with all that she was. My prayers for comfort and peace are lifted for you all. Love and hugs, Susan
Dear Barry, Aaron and Ashley, I am so sorry to hear of your wife and mom's passing! She was one of the most genuine people I have ever known. Her laugh was infectious and she made you happy just being around her. She was a wonderful mom and she totally adored you both and was so proud of you! As a fellow teacher, I admired her love and dedication she showed to each and every student! She will be missed! Love and prayers for each of you in the difficult days ahead. May God comfort you and give you His peace! Much love, Tammy Packard
Barry, Aaron, Ashley and family, I’m so sorry for your loss. When I think of Teresa, it was her beautiful smile she had. She was the happiest person I ever saw. Praying for the family.
Barry and Family, Teresa was a wonderful teacher and friend. We had great times at Oak Hill Elementary and during our many visits. May God comfort you at this difficult time. - Doris Fleming
May you all and your families find peace, love and comfort at the hands of Jesus. it’s a beautiful day in Heaven. Prayers from me and my family.
Barry, so sorry to hear of Teresa's passing. Prayers are lifted for you and Family!!!
I always loved coming to visit y'all with my nana and sister thank you for treating us like family💜 the best neighbors ever!
Barry, I’m so sorry for her passing. I just saw this. I’m working today and can’t come to the service. Wanted you to know I’m thinking about you guys. She fought a courageous battle with cancer. I’m glad she is whole and out of pain. Her angel wings are beautiful, I’m sure. My prayer for God to hold you in His hands through this difficult time.
Barry, Aaron, Ashley, I’m so sorry for your loss. I’ll always remember Mrs. Benton’s sweetness toward me, and love for you guys. May she rest in peace. Hugs, and love from The Duckworth’s.
Teresa was an incredible person that touched so many lives. She will be remembered and cherished forever. I can say I know how you feel by losing a soul mate. I can also say I know how Teresa felt with the suffering at dialysis. I have been through both pains. God will get you through this sorrow, but it's a long time hurt. My prayers are with you and the family. I am available if you need to talk. Love and prayers, Lynn Causby