Charles Larry Bennett

Charles "Larry" Bennett, born in Jonesboro, Arkansas on February 10, 1944, closed his eyes to eternal sleep Thursday, February 25, 2026. His parting was peaceful, like we all wish to go. He was the third of four children, born to Charlie G and Jessie (Houston) Bennett.

He grew up in Pine Bluff where he graduated from Pine Bluff High School in 1965. At the age of 21, he went to work for Cotton Belt Railroad, later becoming Union Pacific, as a switchman. He worked on the railways for 39 years.

His passions included all things outdoors, particularly hunting, fishing and camping. He counted it one of his greatest rewards when he was able to leave Pine Bluff and move to Heber Springs, Arkansas where he could live out his passions in the heart of Natural State Ozarks; and be near his beloved family. He spent his days outside teaching his grandchildren Chuck and Pudd'in (Ashlee) how to fish and hunt the woods of Cleburne County and the waters of Greers Ferry Lake, and how to ride a bicycle. He drew his inspiration and strength from those times.

Larry's favorite place was the farm. His love for his daughter Teresa and son-in-law Lee, drew him like a magnet to their place where he could tend the fields and deer camp and, of course, master his passions alongside both. He loved working on Lee's equipment as well. Family meant everything to him. He garnered strength from them; strength he would unknowingly need when an unexpected stroke at the age of 67, nearly took him 15 years ago. His and his family's lives forever changed after that. One might assume for the worse, but even the years after, he continued to teach his loved ones what he could. He taught resilience and not giving up. He taught us to focus on what you have and not what you don't. He even taught those that didn't know what they were learning. In the words of his granddaughter Ashlee; Pawpaw "tested patience, trust, forgiveness… Everything". He never knew how much he inspired those around him. The strength and courage he displayed during these years will be his legacy and gift to his family, friends, and caregivers. He never gave up. He defied the odds. Most of all, he loved.

He is preceded in death by his parents, his siblings Shirly Taylor and Harold Adams.

He leaves behind a legacy and wonderful memories to cherish to those who survive him, including his daughter Teresa (Dr. Lee) Vaughan, his grandson Chuck (Bobbie) Vaughan, his granddaughter Ashlee (Austin) Childers, all of Heber Springs, Arkansas. He also leaves behind 4 bonus great grandchildren. He is also survived by his sister Sue Hartley of Pine Bluff, Brother-in-Law Lee Taylor and numerous nieces, nephews. Finally, he leaves a host of friends, woods full of deer, a lake full of fish, pastures needing bush hogged and sunny days.

He leaves behind a host of caregivers these past 15 years. To begin, his daughter Teresa. The love she had for her dad was very evident to anyone who was involved in his care. She was involved every day. There was never any doubt where he would be going after stroke rehab. He came to his daughter's home and Teresa made sure he lived his remaining days supported by the best healthcare professionals she could find. These caregivers became his family. He wanted to especially name Erin Phillips, Cathy Hickman, Renee Pettie, and Paula Poplawski; Haley Maples and Dailyn, whom he loved dearly. April Sawrie was there at the end of his journey and he is so thankful, so is Teresa.

Finally, he leaves a host of friends, woods full of deer, a lake full of fish, pastures needing bush hogged and sunny days, and a family full of memories that will last a lifetime.

A private celebration of his life will be held at the farm.

In lieu of flowers please consider donating to the Heber Springs Humane Society.

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Services will be handled by Olmstead Funeral Home