Name: Visitation for BARBARA BENNETT
Start: 2021-06-19T16:00:00.000Z
End: 2021-06-19T18:00:00.000Z
Location: J K Johnson Funeral Home Pa

Barbara Jean Pope Bennett April 29, 1939 - June 12, 2021
Barbara was born April 29, 1939 to Willie and Annie Pope in Atlantic City, NJ. After graduating from Howard University in 1960 as a member of Delta Sigma Theta, Sorority, Inc., she married Dr. Carl R. Bennett in 1964, joined Metropolitan A.M.E. church then got her Masters from Middlebury in 1965. A talented singer, musician, linguist and renaissance woman, she was loved as D.C.'s Teacher of the Year in 1994 while teaching Spanish as head of foreign languages at Banneker Sr. High. Barbara is survived by her brother, Oliver Pope; son, Bradley Bennett; daughter-in-law, Adeyela Bennett; granddaughters, Breanna and Brooke Bennett; her daughter, Bianca Alexander, Esq.; son-in-law, Michael Alexander; many beloved friends and family. On Saturday, June 19, from 12 p.m. until 2 p.m. friends may visit with the family at J.K. Johnson Funeral Home, 6503 Old Branch Ave., Temple Hills, MD. Arrangements by K.J. Robinson Funeral Home.

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Published by The Washington Post on Jun. 18, 2021.

Memories and Condolences
for BARBARA BENNETT

13 Entries

Derrick Maurice McCombs

June 18, 2025

Thanks Miss Bennett for giving me the courage to speak Spanish. I still remember that the fort never surrenders. "El Alcazar no sé rinde!"

Brigham Geurts

December 6, 2022

I am currently in a dual master's program for counseling- I minored in Spanish and frequently assist and counsel individuals from the latinx community as a Vocational Rehabilitation counselor.

In one of my final school assignments, I have been reflecting on the roots of my love for the Spanish language, those who speak it, and the beautiful cultures through which it flows. Much of this love was initially sparked in 2004-2005 by Mrs. Bennett during my freshman year at Banneker.

I initially set out to find a phone number or email address to thank her for being so instrumental- but it seems that I have perhaps lost the chance in this mortal life. To Mrs. Bennett's loved ones, thank you for sharing such a wonderfully passionate individual. I can still remember many of the phrases, explanations, and feelings that I learned in that class- it seems like yesterday instead of 17 years ago.

I wish Mrs. Bennett peace and happiness as she rests- ¡gracias por todo profesora!

Shaundrea Brown

September 8, 2022

Something in my spirit made me think about her recently though in graduated from Banneker in 2003. I always loved Mrs. Bennett! She was very knowledgeable and had high expectations. But she also supported you. I loved that she spoke Spanish so eloquently and really enjoyed her classes throughout the years! You will be missed!

Derrick McCombs

July 31, 2022

Hasta la vista profesora. Continua a vaya con Dios.

Sister Mary Helen Kashuba

August 23, 2021

I am saddened to hear of Barbara's passing. I worked with her on the Board of the Northeast Conference on the Teaching of Foreign Languages. She was a delightful person, and a committed Foreign Language educator. I will remember her, her family, and friends in my prayers.

Kathleen Steers

August 21, 2021

Always professional, kind, well-dressed, Barbara was the epitome of a lady. My fondest memory is of arriving for a language conference, sitting to share stories, and just laughing together! What a privilege it was to serve with her on the NECTFL Board of Directors, class of 2003. Eternal rest, Barbara.

Derrick McCombs

July 11, 2021

Adios Senora hasta nosotros encontramos otra vez.

Kianca Black- Banneker Class of 2001

July 1, 2021

To my favorite high school teacher, thanks for believing in me. May you Rest in Peace. Heaven has gained a beautiful angel.

LaShawn Jefferson - Banneker Class of 84

June 20, 2021

With out Ms. Bennett’s love of language, I would never have learned how much I loved Spanish. Would never have minored in Spanish in undergrad, would never have done junior year abroad in Spain in college, would never have lived in Spain as a Watson Fellow after college, would never have spent years working on women’s human rights in the Americas using my Spanish every day.

It all began with her indefatigable spirit and love of teaching Spanish.

I can still feel her energy and excitement and hear her voice and the click-click-click of her shoes as she walked back and forth across the classroom — doing everything possible to help us become our future Spanish speaking selves.

May God bless her and may she Rest In Peace.

LaShawn Jefferson

Reggie Elliott

June 19, 2021

Oh, no!!!!!! Mrs . Bennett was my favorite teacher at Banneker. I remember traveling with her to Spain. She was my home room teacher. I remember how extremely smart she was and her command of Spanish. She introduced me to Unos Pizzeria & El Tamarindo Restaurants in DC. I remember her energetic walk. I love Spanish to this day because of her.

Skylar Rampersaud

June 19, 2021

Mrs. Bennett was a wonderful teacher and a wonderful woman. We will miss her.

Angela Anderson

June 18, 2021

My sincere condolences to the Bennett family. I was a student at Benjamin Banneker from 1990 to 1994. Ms. Bennett was always very interested in the well being and academic success of all of the students not just her Spanish class students. She was well respected and well loved. I did not have the honor of taking one of her classes because I was on the French tract. I did, however, have the honor to work with her in various different capacities as a member of the International student club and the French Honor Society. May she rest in heaven

Angela Anderson

Dr. Betty Perry-Glass

June 18, 2021

To the Family:

There are no adequate words to express my deep sorrow upon learning of passing of Señora Bennett. During her life journey, she was such a positive influence on many, on thousands of lives – students, their parents, and her colleagues. Barbara was an outstanding and skilled educator; we taught together at Benjamin Banneker Academic High School. She was not only a colleague but also a beloved friend. We remained in touch with each other even after we had both retired. Please accept my condolences during this difficult time and know that your grief is shared by many.

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