Lelia Mae Bennett

Lelia Mae Gray Bennett, 87, of Cecilia, passed away Monday, Nov. 17, 2025, at Baptist Health Hardin.

Lelia worked in accounting and business management until she retired from Elizabethtown Winnelson as the office manager. She had many friends throughout her life while being an honest and dependable employee.

She was a faithful Christian and, with her husband, Joe, by her side, she raised their two daughters in the Baptist church.

Lelia devoted much of her time after retirement to caring for their grandson, Alex, whom she deeply loved.

Along with Joe, they went on lots of adventures together.

Lelia enjoyed reading her devotional books and visits from friends and family.

She was a loving wife and devoted mother. Lelia and Joe had been married for 67 years.

Lelia was preceded in death by her husband, Joseph Earl Bennett; her parents, Emmit Williams and Viola Mae Gray; two infant brothers; her sister, Loetta Gray Morris; and a stepgrandson, Robby Ash.

She is survived by her two daughters, Viola Natalia Bennett Ash (Bobby) and Donna Jo Bennett (Tracy Cudnik); one grandson, Alex Joseph Ash (Lexy Despain); and one great-granddaughter, Lydia Michelle Ash.

Private services were held at Brown Funeral Home with only family in attendance.

Condolences may be expressed online at brownfuneral.com.