Jo Ann Bennett

Jo Ann Bennett, 74, of Binghamton, passed away peacefully while holding the hand of her son, Nicholas Bennett, on November 11, 2025. She is predeceased by her husband, Richard Bennett; parents, Edith and James Murray; sister, Cheryl Stone; parents-in-law, Rosemary and William Bennett; sisters-in-law, Catherine Russell, Anita Svoboda, and Mary Lou Bennett; and brothers-in-law, Michael Bennett and Ronald Svoboda.

She is survived by her son, Philip Bennett, and granddaughter, Arabella Bennett; son and daughter-in-law, Nicholas and Stephany Bennett; granddaughters, Bellamira and Giavella Bennett; brothers, William Bennett, Jr. and Dennis Bennett; sisters and brothers-in-law, Lisa and Dennis O'Keefe, Susan and John Lane, Cindy and Dale Gitchell; sister-in-law, Lynn Bennett; brother-in-law, William Russell; and mother-in-law Marjorie Bennett; as well as many beloved nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends.

She lived her life with energy, compassion, and a deep love for the people around her. She enjoyed life's simple pleasures - playing bingo, buying lottery tickets, celebrating the holidays, and Christmas shopping all year long. She loved cheering at her kids' sports games, running the St. Mary's concession stand, watching her favorite shows, and finding excitement in the slot machines at the casino. She was a wonderful cook and was known for her comforting casseroles and her famous Sunday Sauce, which she often shared with family, friends, and neighbors.

She was a tough, determined woman with an unwavering selflessness and giving nature - truly a living sanctuary for anyone in need - and she touched countless lives with her kindness. More than anything, she was devoted to her family and found her greatest happiness in them. The last nine months of her life, spent with her son Nick, daughter-in-law Stephany, and her two young granddaughters, filled her days with laughter and joy. She made a lasting impact on the Binghamton community and within her beloved Hawley Street neighborhood, leaving behind a legacy of warmth, strength, and love.

A Memorial Mass will be held on Saturday, November 15, 2025, at 11:00 a.m. at St. Mary of the Assumption Church in Binghamton, NY.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to The Danielle House, Mercy House of the Southern Tier, or the Humane Society in Jo Ann's memory.