Jean B. Bennett
Jean B. Bennett, 89, passed away peacefully at home on January 6, 2018, surrounded by her loving family. Born in Milton, MA on October 27, 1928 to the late James and Mildred Butler, she was the second youngest of six siblings and spent her childhood in North Quincy, MA, with frequent summer visits to Nantucket. Jean matriculated for a short time at Simmons College but soon met her soulmate and sixty-eight year life partner, Al, whom she married in 1947. They shortly thereafter moved to Connecticut, settling eventually in North Haven in 1959, where they raised five children: Jim (Joan), Alan (Roxanne), Jan (Chris Cowles), Peter (Carmel), and Rick. Jean devoted her life to family, faith, service, and hospitality. A loving wife to Al until his death in 2016, she was the rock of the Bennett family to the very end of her rich, full life. Jean treated each and every personal encounter as one to be savored and thoroughly enjoyed; she passed judgment on no one and found goodness in everyone. A twenty-one year member of the New Haven Lions Club and a Charter member of the New Haven Lioness Club before that, Jean also found fulfillment in serving others, while her faith knew no bounds. She leaves behind a sister, Millie, her five children, thirteen grandchildren, and thirteen great-grandchildren. Jean was predeceased by her husband, Al, daughter-in-law Jacqueline, brothers Charlie and Fred, and sisters Marjorie and Ruth. The family invites friends to attend a Memorial Service for Jean on Saturday, January 20, 2018, 10:30 a.m., at St. John’s Episcopal Church, 3 Trumbull Place, in North Haven. A reception will follow the service. In lieu of flowers, donations in her memory may be made either to St. John’s Episcopal Church or to the “Lions Club of New Haven Charitable Trust,” P.O. Box 8012, New Haven, CT 06530.
Dear Jan, Chris & Family – I have such fond memories of .Mrs. Bennett.. She was always so welcoming with that big, warm smile, Boston accent and great hugs. I had such wonderful times at the Bennett household as we grew up: having meals together, playing games in the basement, and sleepovers with Jan and the girls. Mrs. Bennett always made everyone feel special and loved. I wish for you all peace, and when you can, rest during this time. With much love & hugs, donna
Dear Jan & family I am so sorry to hear of your mom. Jan you stopped over with your mom a couple years ago to my mom’s house when Donna was in. It was such a great visit. I did not know her well but just from that one little visit i knew she was special and what a great personality!!! May all the special memories help ease the pain. Thinking of you with deepest sympathy… Pam Jones (Buehler)
I am sorry for your loss. I encountered Jean on many occasions in North Haven, she always had kind words of wisdom to say to me, and I wish you peace and meaning at this difficult time.
Jim, Alan, Peter, Jan & Rick, Barbara and I were so sorry to learn of the passing of your mom. She was a special lady. She will be missed. Our thoughts and prayers are with you.
Please accept my sincere condolences. I enjoyed our year as co-Brownie leaders which is how we met those many years ago. She was a wonderful friend and even though we didn’t see much of each other, we always had a hug to share, when we did.
Rick & family, My deepest condolences go out to you and your family at this very difficult time. Know your Grandmother is in the arms of our Lord and at peace. I am sure your memories will keep her alive in your heart and with you always.
Sending warm wishes to all of Jean’s family at this time of loss.