Muril Bennett

Vernon “Muril” Bennett, 77, of Jasper, Florida, passed away on February 22, 2026, and was joyfully reunited with his beloved son, Sam.

Muril was born on April 20, 1948, in Stockton, Georgia, to Vernon and Onnie Lee Bennett. In 1956, his family moved to Statenville, Georgia, where he would grow up and begin shaping the strong work ethic and devotion to family that defined his life.

In 1972, Muril married his girl, Sheila Cooper. Their world was forever changed in 1973 with the arrival of twin sons, Dan and Sam—an adventure that kept Muril and Sheila constantly on the move. The family grew again in 1981 with the birth of their third son, Eric. Family was always at the center of Muril’s life, and everything he did revolved around providing for and being present with those he loved most.

Muril spent 40 years earning a living at PCS Phosphate (now Nutrien) in White Springs, Florida, where he became a valued and respected member of the dragline crew. He retired as Supervisor of Dragline Maintenance, leaving behind a legacy of knowledge, leadership, and meticulous notes that crew members have shared and still rely on from time to time. Even after retirement, Muril continued to offer guidance and support to the crew.

When he wasn’t at work, Muril could usually be found outside—throwing a baseball with the boys, working in the yard, or tinkering in his shop. As the boys grew older, they also came to enjoy playing some golf together, though Muril only truly enjoyed the course if one or more of his sons were playing with him. Fishing was his favorite pastime, especially trips to Bee Haven Bay with one of the boys, a grandson, or another willing buddy and a can of Vienna sausages to accompany a peaceful day on the water.

Muril liked to portray himself as strong and stern and often came across as gruff or grumpy. Even as life slowed down, he never stopped making sure his boys were “in line” and doing as they should. If he was unhappy, he made sure it was known. When grandchildren came along, that familiar demeanor earned him the affectionate nickname “Grumpy,” a title he carried with quiet pride.

In 2018, Muril endured the unimaginable loss of his son, Sam. True to his character, he stood strong through the pain, holding his family even closer. As steel is forged in the hottest fire, Muril’s love and devotion to his wife, children, and grandchildren only grew deeper.

Muril is survived by his devoted wife of 53 years, Sheila Cooper Bennett; his son, Dan Bennett and wife, Amanda of Jasper, FL; his son, Eric Bennett and wife, Caitlin of Key Largo, Florida; a nephew who was more like a son, Kenny Keeling and wife, Tracy of Pennsylvania; and his daughter-in-law, Maggie Bennett of Lake City, FL.

He is also survived by his brothers, Lamar Bennett and wife Glenda of Dasher, Georgia, and Tony Bennett and wife, Judy of Echols County, GA; his sisters, Gwen Swilley of Echols County, GA, Violet Corbett and husband, David of Echols County, GA, Hilda Richardson and husband, Ronald of Lanier County, GA, Nell Smith and husband, Billy Ray of Valdosta, GA, and Kim Bennett of Valdosta, GA; his brother-in-law, Andy Cooper and wife, Julia of Jasper, FL; and his sister-in-law, Yonna Lanier and husband, Donny of Live Oak, FL.

Muril leaves behind his cherished grandchildren: Cross Bennett, Matthew Bennett, Layne Bennett, Cian Bennett (“Salty Sam”), Alexandria Milton, Preston Parks (Savannah), Jackson Parks (Samantha), and Pierce Parks; six great-grandchildren; and many nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends who will miss him deeply.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Vernon and Onnie Lee Bennett of Statenville, Georgia; his brother, Jimmy Bennett; and his son, Sam Bennett; and his brother-in-law, Bobby Cooper.

Muril’s life will be honored at a memorial service on Thursday, February 26, 2026, at First Baptist Church in Jasper, Florida, at 11:00 a.m., with visitation beginning at 10:00 a.m. prior to the service.