Obituary of Preston Bennett

Preston Bennett Jr. July 14, 1929 November 7, 2006 Preston Bennett Jr., 77, of Ruth Layne in Niles, passed away on Tuesday, November 7, 2006, after a long battle with Parkinson's disease, with his wife by his side. Preston was born on July 14, 1929 to the late Luther and Dovie (Duke) Bennett in Holly Springs, Arkansas. On November 25, 1950 Preston married the love of his life, Betty Pickrum at a ceremony in Pocahontas, Arkansas with the local minister. Preston proudly served his country in the United States Army. After being discharged he spent most of his time outdoors. Being raised in the south, he wanted to bring some of the south up here to Michigan with him, so he planted cotton. In 1967 he was featured in the Niles Daily Star for growing some amazing stalks of cotton. He had a wonderful garden and a pristine lawn. Preston was a very determined person, especially after being diagnosed with Parkinson's disease at the age of 49. His family was a big part of his life and he enjoyed spending all of his time with them. He is preceded in death by his parents, Sister Mary Nelson and Brother J.L. Bennett. Preston is survived by his wife of nearly 56 years, sons Randy (Laura) Bennett of Mishawaka, Indiana and David (Donna) Bennett of Logansville, GA, Sisters Ruby (James) Bryant of Heber Springs, AK, Veda (Buell) Mack of Galesburg, IL, Geraldine (Walter) Bibbs of Springfield, MO, Brothers Joe (Joanne) Bennett of Abington, IL and Charles (Ann) Bennett of Heber Springs, AK and 2 grandchildren. A time of visitation will be held on Thursday, November 9, 2006 from 6-8 p.m. at the Mission Hills Memorial Chapel where his services will be held on Friday, November 10, 2006 at 11:00 a.m. Pastor Harold Savage will be officiating. Preston will be interned at the Mission Hills Memorial Gardens. Arrangements have been entrusted to Mission Hills Memorial Chapel and Brown Funeral Home and Cremation Services (formerly Pifer~Smith) of Niles.