James Royce Bennett

James Royce Bennett of Glendale, Arizona, passed away on July 16th in Huntsville, Alabama, at the age of 79. Born on December 9, 1944, in Screven, Georgia, Jim was the grandson of Grover Cleveland and Annie Laurie Bryant Bennett and the son of Alvin Cleveland and Margaret Aldridge Bennett.

Jim is survived by his wife, Glenda Faye Bennett, his daughter, Sara Nicole Hawkins (Matt), and his grandchildren, Hannah, Matthew (Kaelynn), Audrey, and Margaret. He is also survived by his son, Jason Ryan Bennett (Tiffany), and his grandsons, Jarred, Jaycob, Jayden, and Jacson. His sister, Anita Bennett Elmore, his brother, Rodger Bennett (Betty), and many loving nieces and nephews also mourn his loss.

Raised in Georgia, Florida, and Kentucky, Jim, known as "Jimmy" to many, graduated from Paducah High School in Paducah, Kentucky, in 1962. He served in the National Guard after high school, studied Veterinary Science in Alabama, and worked in various trades. Jim's main occupation was as a Construction General Superintendent for over 40 years, during which he built thousands of homes.

In 1972, Phoenix, Arizona, became Jim's home where he raised his family. He served his church for more than two decades as an elder and in outreach ministry, with a passion for serving the homeless and those struggling with addictions.

Jim was an avid outdoorsman, hunter, and woodworking enthusiast. Always up for an adventure, he enjoyed camping, riding motorcycles, and off-roading vehicles. He loved playing baseball and softball, and especially cheering on the Arizona Diamondbacks.

Jim will be remembered by his family and friends for his free spirit and candid nature. His rambunctious energy and fun personality were always present, and he could make you laugh at any moment with his jokes, wise sayings, and storytelling. Most important to Jim was spending time with his family, especially his loving wife of 55 years, his eight grandchildren, and his beloved companion, Hop.

A private family graveside service will be held at Phoenix Memorial Park and Mortuary on Monday, July 29th.

Please join us for a celebration of Jim’s life on August 19th at 11 AM at Christ Church of the Valley – North Phoenix, 15025 North 19th Ave, Phoenix, Arizona 85023.