Co-founder of Miner, Tines passes away

Beverly Sue Benson (formerly O’Rourke) Bacon, a beloved wife, mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother passed away peacefully in her Tucson, Ariz., home on March 4, 2024, at the age of 88. Born in Tulsa, Okla., on Sept. 21, 1935, Beverly lived a life filled with love, passion, and remarkable accomplishments.

Beverly spent her formative years in Kansas City, Mo., and Independence, Kan., where she cultivated a deep appreciation for community involvement and education.

She pursued her passion for journalism, attending both Christian College in Columbia, Mo., and Kansas University. Her commitment to storytelling and writing would later lead to her authorship of three books: "Early History of Mineral and Rio Grande Counties, Colorado 1880 to 1980," "Best Friends Are Like Suspenders: They Hold You Up When You Are Falling Down," and "Unfortunate Women," as well as producing four audiobooks of "Pioneer Women’s Diaries." Her words will continue to inspire and educate for years to come.

She leaves behind her legacy through her three children, Jeffrey, Leilani, and Dallas, and their spouses, as well as, numerous grandchildren and great-grandchildren, all of whom she cherished dearly. Additionally, she embraced her role as a stepmother/grandmother, extending her love and support to her stepchildren and their families, loving them as her own.

Beverly was not only a devoted woman to her faith and family but also an active member of her communities wherever she resided. She once served as a Girl Scout leader, and her involvement in various business clubs and churches over the years enriched the lives of those around her.

She always had an entrepreneurial spirit and was a co-founder of the Mineral County Miner and South Fork Tines, a Colorado weekly newspaper. Later, she pursued her passion for Native American culture and founded the Tawa Indian Gallery and Boutique in South Fork and Tucson. Beverly's passion for literature and culture led her to become a volunteer member of the Oro Valley Library Board and SAACA (Southern Arizona Arts and Cultural Alliance), as well as an active member of Casas Church.

Throughout her life, Beverly pursued a multitude of hobbies from golf and tennis to swimming and hiking, she embraced an active lifestyle. Notably, she conquered three 14-ers, the first on her 50th birthday, demonstrating her adventurous spirit and determination. Her love for the arts was evident in her passion for reading, writing, and painting, which brought her and those who knew her, immense joy and fulfillment.

At the age of 67, Beverly embarked on a new chapter as a realtor in Tucson, showcasing her dedication to lifelong learning. She retired at the age of 83, leaving behind a legacy of professionalism and integrity in the real estate industry.

In a heartwarming union, Beverly married John Bacon on Christmas Day in 2018, finding true love and companionship in the final years of her life. While she is no longer with us, her memory will forever be cherished by those who knew and loved her.

Beverly was preceded in death by her parents, Fred and Ruth Benson, younger brother, Fred Benson, late husband, Robert “Bob” VanHorn, stepson Robert Jr. “Bobby” VanHorn, great-grandson, Henry McPheeters, and grandson, Alex Johnson. Although she is gone, her spirit lives on in the hearts of her family, friends, and all who were touched by her kindness, generosity, and unwavering love.

A celebration of Beverly's life will be held at the Barrier Chapel at Casas Church on Friday, March 15, at 12 p.m. in Tucson, Ariz. Flowers may be sent directly to Casas Church Barrier Chapel (address below) and donations can be made to Casas Church for the “Love My City” Outreach Program.

She will be deeply missed, and her witty, creative, and kind spirit will be fondly remembered by all who had the privilege of knowing her.

May she rest in eternal peace with Jesus.

Celebration of Life: March 15, 2024, at 12 p.m. MST, Barrier Chapel at Casas Church, 10801 N La Cholla Blvd, Tucson, AZ 85742. Reception in Palo Verde Building immediately after.

Mailing Address for Flowers: Barrier Chapel at Casas Church, Re. Beverly Bacon, 10801 N La Cholla Blvd, Tucson, AZ 85742

Donations: Checks Made Out To: Casas Church, Memo: “Love My City” Outreach, In Memory of Beverly Bacon. Mail To: Casas Church, 10801 N La Cholla Blvd, Tucson, AZ 85742.