James Bennett Obituary
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Jim is survived by his loving wife of 31 years, Terry Bennett; loving father of Chris Bennett and Jon Bennett; grandfather of Sarah, Jack, Eleanor, and Francine Bennett; dear brother of the late John Bennett and late Dotty Bennett; uncle and great uncle of Doug (Lisa) Max and Maria Bennett, Judy (Scott) Beedle, the late Doug (Lindsie) Marsteller, Jennifer (David) Silvers, David (Michael Botts) Camilla Marsteller Botts, John Kiselica, Alex (Angela) Nick Kiselica, Justin, Benjamin, and Samuel Marsteller.
Jim was the former Director of Bands and Chairman of Fine Arts for the Upper St. Clair School District. Serving the community for 30 years he took immense pride in the accomplishments of his students. He often spoke of his good fortune having had the opportunity to share his love of music with thousands of students. Jim was a devoted alum of West Virginia University.
Jim, together with Dean Streator founded Community Band South providing an opportunity for musicians to continue their musical pursuits as adults. During his retirement, Jim managed the Upper St. Clair Theatre, bringing groups like River City Brass Band and Town Hall South to the community. An avid foodie, he continued to build on the cooking skills taught to him by his mother and loved hosting holiday meals for his family.
A memorial service will be held at John McMillian Presbyterian Church (875 Clifton Road, Bethel Park, PA, 15102), on June 24, 2023, at 10:00 am.
In lieu of flowers memorial contributions may be made to the family.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Paul Lorincy
June 7, 2025
Still miss that dry humor and unique charm.
Carole Elm
June 25, 2023
Jim´s wit fit into Terry´s family perfectly. Making all laugh even at the end. He will be missed.
Susanne Finke
June 18, 2023
I no longer live in Pittsburgh, but I came across Mr. Bennett's obituary. It saddens me to learn of his passing and suffering (cancer). He was truly a GREAT person. He saw myself and my other 3 siblings through 4 years of band AND marching band. Anyone who has been through marching band knows that 3 months of summer practice from 7am-4pm were relentless! Mr. Bennett was with us the ENTIRE TIME. Something as high school kids we never really considered how much of himself, his time, etc. he put into what he did. I remember his reddish beard (not so red later). He was AWESOME! Mr. Bennett had a positive, permanent influence on my life. Thank you, Mr. B., You will always be here in memory.
Michael Lang
June 18, 2023
Youth is wasted on the young. Mr Bs lessons that he gave us every day were under appreciated by myself at the time, and probably many others. However, we see their value, and what it took to give them, when we have the perspective of an adult. Excellence in preparation, practice and performance...all things he relentlessly drilled into us every class and band practice. Expecting excellence from ourselves and helping others to reach for it. We use them in "adult" music if we're still doing it, and in all other areas of our lives. What a gift.I can't thank him enough for putting up with us unruly drummers and teaching these valuable life lessons. I can still hear him yelling into his megaphone sometimes, as if I'm transported back being a teenaged troublemaking drummer in the 80s. Godspeed Mr B.
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Dale Nagy Class 74
June 16, 2023
Thank you for your patience, Mr. Bennett. You were never able to make me a better saxophone player, but you did make me a better person. You will always be remembered.
Samuel Hazo
June 15, 2023
So very sorry to learn of this. I don´t know if I have a memory of high school that doesn´t include James Bennett. Then, after I taught ten years in the public school, he facilitated my hiring in Upper St. Clair to work with him. Too many memories to list. Perhaps my favorite was as a junior in high school. He was in the hospital and had to miss a concert, so after the concert Bob Getty and I drove to visit him in St. Clair Hospital. Visiting hours were long over so we planned to say we were his doctors since we were wearing our suits from the concert. Nobody stopped us, we walked directly into his room. He said, "you guys need to get the h*ll outta here!" Then as we were leaving, he smiled and called after us, "Hey, thanks for coming... really!" He leaves a void in so many ways. Our family´s deepest condolences to Terry, Chris, Jon, and to the generations after. Love knows no boundaries.
Eric J Patton
June 15, 2023
So sorry to hear of Jim's passing. He will be remembered for all he touched with his love for music. He was also a great teacher as well and a great friend too! May you rest in peace Jim!
Jane Wheeler
June 14, 2023
Mr. Bennett was the most influential teacher during my years at USC (1976-1980). He provided encouragement, discipline and a critical artistic outlet for me and many other students. My high school experience would not have been nearly as meaningful without him. My sincere condolences to Terry and the entire family. I am certain he is directing God's orchestra.
Mary Ann Stabile
June 14, 2023
I have such fond memories working with Jim. He was such an asset to the music and theatre programs at USC. My deepest condolences to Terry and his family.
Terry and Pamela Kushner
June 13, 2023
Great guy, outstanding band director and musician. Advocate for kids and a great friend. Will miss you! Our deepest condolences to Terry and family. Terry & Pamela Kushner
Leslie Yerkes
June 13, 2023
With the greatest respect and gratitude to Mr. B for making my high-school years rich with friendships and a place to feel safe. Mr. B did this for my entire family. His contributions never ended and will live on in the hearts of so many.
Paul lorincy
June 13, 2023
Lost a great friend Jim lived hard and strong despite so many medical hardships. He never complained All of us share dearly in his loss. God bless Terry and family
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