Shirley V. Bennett

Shirley Vanderford Bennett, age 86 of Loganville, Georgia, a devoted wife, mother, grandmother, and friend, passed away peacefully on July 8, 2025, surrounded by those who loved her. She is now reunited in heaven with her beloved husband, James T. Bennett Sr.; her parents, Odus and Ethel Vanderford; her children, James T. Bennett Jr. and April Lynn Bennett; her sisters, Rose Bell Vanderford Martin and Louise Vanderford Wells; and her brothers, Louie and Dewey Vanderford.
Shirley's legacy lives on through those who survive her: her son and daughter-in-law, John and Donna Bennett; her daughter and son-in-law, Connie and Thomas Johnston; her cherished grandchildren, Justin and Tiffany Richey, Elizabeth Cockrell, Tim and Makensie Barnes, Jason and Jessica Bennett, Jake and Syra Bennett, Brandon Bennett, and Jackson Cockrell; and her adored great-grandchildren, Channing Barnes, Reagan Richey, Olivia Richey, and baby girl Bennett.
Born on a farm off Collins Hill Road-now the site of Collins Hill High School-Shirley was proud of her Gwinnett County roots. She held the honor of being the last graduate to walk across the stage at Snellville School, Class of 1957. Early in life, she worked with Genesco Shoe Company, later dedicating herself fully to raising her family. Once her children were grown, she returned to work and found joy in serving as the beloved "bread lady" at Head Elementary for more than 20 years.
In 1967, Shirley and James settled into a home on Killian Hill Road, where they raised their four children and built a life filled with love, laughter, and memories. Known affectionately as "Grandma Bennett" to many, Shirley's warm heart and gentle spirit were felt by all who knew her.
She loved spending time with her family, traveling anywhere that didn't involve the beach, and enjoying her favorite drink, Dr. Pepper. She was a wonderful cook-her green beans, made from her mother's cherished recipe, were a family favorite, just like her sisters'. Shirley found deep joy in caring for others and created a home where everyone felt welcome and loved.
Her absence will be deeply felt, but her love, wisdom, and kindness will forever remain in the hearts of those who knew and loved her.
"Well done, good and faithful servant... Enter into the joy of your Lord." - Matthew 25:23
The funeral service to celebrate the life of Shirley Vanderford Bennett will be held on Friday, July 11, 2025 at 11:00 AM at Tom M. Wages Snellville Chapel, Snellville, GA. Burial will follow at Eternal Hills Memory Gardens, Snellville, GA. The family will receive friends Thursday, July 10, 2025 from 6:00 PM until 8:00 PM and Friday, July 11, 2025 from 10:00 AM until the time of service 11:00 AM at the funeral home.
Condolences may be sent or viewed at www.wagesfuneralhome.com. Tom M. Wages Funeral Service, A Family Company, 3705 Highway 78 West, Snellville, GA 30039 (770-979-3200) has been entrusted with the arrangements. To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of Shirley, please visit our floral store.