Mary Dean Bennett

Mary Dean Bennett passed away peacefully on April 13, 2024, having been born in Hohenwald, TN, on December 20, 1950, to the late William Staggs and Flora Brown Staggs. She closed her final chapter of life in the same town where she grew up and raised a family in the rolling hills and the farm she so dearly loved.

She was predeceased by her lifelong partner and devoted husband, Farmer Bennett, who was her partner in both life and on the farm, as well as her infant brother Billy Jean Staggs, her parents and stepfather Roy Davidson. Her legacy continues through her children, Jeff Bennett (Brandy), and Donna Bennett (Gene Crowe).

Her sister and best friend, Ruthie Nutt (John), will miss Mary's laughter, as they shared an unbreakable bond that only sisters understand. Mary also leaves behind a host of nieces, nephews, and other family and, her adoring grandchildren, Chaz (Lauren) Jernigan, Andrew Bennett, Kasey Rippeto (Colby Cotham), Max Black (Katelyn Musselwhite), Ja'La Bennett (Gage Peters), and Jayanna Bennett (Brady Johns). Her great-grandchildren, Presley, Baylor, Wyn Jernigan, Blain and Blaze Bennett, Lennox Black, Jasper and Kollyns Cotham, and Waylon Peters, brought her immeasurable joy and pride. 

Mary dedicated 27 years of service to the Lewis County Food Bank, from 1996 until 2023, where her commitment to helping others was evident to all who volunteered alongside her. Her involvement with the food bank was not just a job; but her desire to help her community as well as fulfill her passion of searching for antiques and treasures.

Her interests were as lively and spirited as she was. Dogs were her constant companions and brought her immense happiness. Mary could often be found dancing to her favorite tunes, a testament to her love for music and the joy it brought to her soul. She was also an avid fan of crossword games, which kept her mind sharp and entertained. Mary's love for her farm animals, especially her cherished chickens and cows, was well-known. The farm was her sanctuary, and she took great pride in tending to every animal under her care.

Visitation with family will be held on Sunday, April 21, 2024, from 4:00-7:00 pm and will continue Monday, April 22, 2024, from 1:00 pm until the time of service at 2:00 pm. The service, a celebration of Mary's life, will be conducted by Brother Shane Blackwood. Following the service, Mary will be laid to rest at Swiss Cemetery beside the true love of her life, surrounded by the beautiful Tennessee landscape she so dearly loved.

Max Black, Gage Peters, Cliff Carroll, Lynn Carroll, Mike Hinson, Tim Cogdill, Gene Crowe, and Timmy Bennett will serve as pallbearers. After the burial service is complete a time for fellowship will take place at 1230 W. Main Street in Hohenwald.

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