Photo courtesy of Adams Funeral Chapel - Charleston
Feb 18, 1921 - Oct 1, 2018
My heart aches for the loss of Grandpa Bennett. I lost both of my grandfathers many years ago. The first time I met him, he welcomed me into the family with open arms. His smile, twinkling eyes and loving nature were genuine. He truly was a "rare" breed. I wish more men could exemplify the life Grandpa lived. I will cherish the memories I have and always remember how blessed I was to have him in my life.
Kelly Goodman
October 12, 2018 | Taylorville, IL | Family
Very sorry for the lost of your loved one May God the hearer of prayers comfort you during this difficult time and give you strength. 2 cor. 1:4
October 12, 2018
CHARLESTON, IL – James Gordon Bennett, age 97 of Charleston, entered his Heavenly Home on Monday, October 1, 2018 while at Hilltop Skilled Nursing and Rehab. Visitation will be held from 9:00 – 11:00 a.m. on Thursday, October 18, 2018 at Adams Funeral Chapel in Charleston. The Funeral Service honoring and celebrating his life will begin at 11:00 a.m. on Thursday, with Reverend Tom Corum officiating. Inurnment, with military rites, will follow in Roselawn Cemetery in Charleston. It is requested that donations in his honor be made to Wesley United Methodist Church or Habitat for Humanity. Gifts may be left at the visitation/service or mailed in care of Adams Funeral Chapel, 2330 Shawnee Dr., Charleston, IL 61920.
Jim was born February 18, 1921 in Lawrenceville, Illinois, a son of the late Willis and Rebecca (Pargan) Bennett. He married the love of his life, Ann Morgan in August of 1942, and they were blessed with nearly 54 years of marriage prior to her death in May of 1996. Left to cherish many fond memories are his children, James M. Bennett and wife Dorothy of Charleston, Janet Adkins of Springfield, Illinois and Judy Goodman and husband Phil of Taylorville, Illinois; seven grandchildren, Chris (Debbie) Goodman, Scott (Kelly) Goodman, Alex (Heather) Bennett, Brett Bennett, Kelly (Mike) Spitzer, Tim Adkins and Jamie (Scott) Brown; 13 great-grandchildren, a brother-in-law, Joe Reid of California and several nieces and nephews. He was also preceded by a brother, Willis Bennett, Jr. and a sister, Mary Ellen Reid.
Jim was a graduate of Paris High School in Paris, Illinois. He faithfully and honorably served his country with the United States Marine Corps in the Pacific Theatre during World War II from 1942 – 1945. Jim was employed with Central Illinois Public Service (CIPS) for more than 40 years, retiring as a Load Dispatcher. He was a longtime and faithful member of the Wesley United Methodist Church family. He was also a member of IBEW #702, the American Legion, a Life Member of Charleston VFW Paul McVey Post 1592 and Paris Masonic Lodge #268, and a former member of the Charleston Moose Lodge #1388.
Jim was an avid gardener and truly loved being outdoors tending his vegetable gardens. He was a fan of the Chicago Cubs and enjoyed watching all sports and westerns. Following his formal retirement with CIPS Jim kept quite busy looking after his rental properties. He and Ann were able to enjoy traveling and vacationing. Florida was one of their favorite destinations, allowing them to spend time with dear friends and enjoy outdoor activities.
Jim believed that his life had been blessed and was extremely charitable in sharing those blessings with those less fortunate. He was always the gentleman and treated others with respect and kindness, always sharing the gift of a warm and endearing smile. Jim was a wonderful husband, father and grandfather who was devoted to his family and loved them dearly. They will always cherish their many treasured memories.
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