Lila Bromwell Benton was born June 15, 1872, the daughter of
James and Sarah Bromwell of Champaign, Illinois. She attended
elementary, Junior High and graduated from Champaign Senior High
School in 1891. After graduation, she was married to Luster Johnson
and to this union was born two daughters, Helen and Marion. Mr.
Johnson died in 1917.
Both daughters were graduates of the University of Illinois and
pursued professional careers, Marian in teaching and Helen in
secretarial work.
In 1918, Lila married Mr. Edward Benton. They both were staunch
members of the Salem Baptist Church. She became a member in 1887.
Mrs. Benton sang in the choir and served her Church faithfully
in many ways. According to Church Records, Mrs. Benton was awarded
a Certificate of Recognition for 50 years of service to the Salem
Baptist Church in 1937.