Thomas Jackson Bennett Jr.

Thomas Jackson Bennett, Jr. (Bud) of Atlantic Beach passed away peacefully on January 1st, 2025. He was born in Chattanooga, Tennessee on January 7th, 1928. He was married to the love of his life, Barbara Jean Panter, on December 24, 1950.

Jack lived the American dream, working as an entrepreneur who owned a gas station, grocery store and investment property.

He was a member of the Beaches Kiwanis, the American Legion and First Christian Church of the Beaches.

Bud (to his family) is survived by his wife, Barbara, daughter Susan Slavicz (Ed), and sons David Bennett (Catherine) and Scott Bennett (Michelle) and niece, Gale Wichmann.

Family was everything to him. He was Papa Bud to his seven grandchildren: Melissa Vecchiola (Rob), Michael Slavicz (Beth), Barbara Oglesby, Troy Bennett, Kathleen Bennett, Douglas Bennett (Katelyn), and Bryan Bennett (Molly).

He also boasted to everyone about his five great-grandchildren: Parker Vecchiola, Kenley Vecchiola, Grayson Vecchiola, Jude Oglesby and Luke Oglesby.

Without a doubt, Bud loved living. He found happiness in the moments–a trip, a cookie or someone’s company. He cherished a good celebration, especially his birthday. He was an avid cruiser, football watcher and conversationalist.

A graveside service will be held at 11:00 on January 10th at Beaches Memorial Park, with military honors. For those who prefer, memorial contributions may be made to Community Hospice of First Christian Church of the Beaches.

To leave an online condolence to the family, please visit our website at www.DignityMemorial.com.