Russ was born in Memphis, TN on May 21, 1957. He was the youngest of three children born to Henry and Hilda Bennett. He had a deep affinity for Memphis, and remained there throughout his life.
He attended Kingsbury High School, where he went on a date that would change his life forever. He and Patricia Holcomb attended the Kingsbury Senior Banquet in 1975, and never looked back. Upon graduation, they attended the University of Memphis together, and wed in 1979. They lived a wonderful life full of love and devotion for 43 years.
Russ loved the outdoors and enjoyed many hours hunting and fishing, and he thoroughly enjoyed fellowship with his closest friends on these outings. At the end of the day, the laughs and memories shared were far more important than any catch they may have made.
He retired from Mitsubishi Chemical Americas in 2018 after more than 30 years of loyal and devoted service. Russ enjoyed meeting people and getting to know them and developed many deep friendships through the years. He took great pride in being a mentor, generously sharing his knowledge and experience with those just starting their careers.
Russ is survived by his wife, Pat Bennett and his daughter, Staci Bennett of Bartlett, TN; his sister, Jannie Ball of Olive Branch, Mississippi, and his uncle, Bruce Moorman, of Memphis, TN. He was also “Great Uncle Russ” to 8 nieces and nephews, 14 great-nieces and nephews, and two great-great-nieces and nephews, all of whom he loved and adored greatly. He was preceded in death by his parents, Henry and Hilda Bennett, and his sister, Becky Betts.
All who knew Russ will mourn his passing. But especially his family and friends, for whom his love knew no end.
Family will receive friends from 2:00pm to 4:00pm on Wednesday, May 24 at Memphis Funeral Home and Memorial Gardens, 3700 N. Germantown Rd, Bartlett, TN. A memorial service will follow at 4:00pm. Memorials may be sent to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, or the charity of your choice.
Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be shared at www.MemphisFuneralGermantownParkway.com for the Bennett family.
