Tammy Mae Bennett

Tammy Mae Bennett, age 61, passed away on December 23, 2025, at St Mary’s Hospital in Rochester, MN, after a long battle with Multiple Sclerosis.

Born on October 7, 1964, in Albert Lea, MN, she was the daughter of Larry J. and Twyla (Oldfather) Bennett. She grew up in rural New Richland, where she spent much of her childhood enjoying time at the lake. After graduating from New Richland–Hartland High School, she moved to Waseca and raised her three children there.

Diagnosed with multiple sclerosis in her early thirties, she was unable to pursue work outside the home. Still, she filled her days with meaning by caring for the children of friends and family, something she truly enjoyed. In her quiet moments, she enjoyed settling in with her favorite television shows; soap operas, game shows, and the occasional western.

What she loved most, however, was being social; heading out with friends or spending hours chatting on the phone. She cared deeply for the people in her life, always making time for connection. Long before she had children, she even took on the challenge of caring for a small raccoon, later discovering that keeping up with both a mischievous raccoon and children was more than she could manage. Purple was her signature color; if she wasn’t wearing it, it was sure to be part of her décor; even decorating her Christmas tree in her favorite hue.

Tammy will be lovingly remembered by her children, Crystal Bennett, Tamitha (Michael Sletten) Olson, and Lee (Jennifer) Kelly; grandchildren, Riley Tarter, Breanna Olson, Xander Kelly, Corrianna Kelly, Savannah Olson, and Marzane Appleton; brothers, Larry Allen Bennett and Charles (Tammy) Bennett; boyfriend, Doug Gathje; along with nieces, nephews, and close friends.

She was preceded in death by her parents and sister-in-law, Teresa Bennett.

Tammy will be laid to rest at Hillcrest Cemetery in Albert Lea, MN.