In Loving Memory of Roy Clifford Bennett, Jr
January 24, 1944 – January 5, 2024
Roy Clifford Bennett, Jr, beloved husband, father, grandfather, and great-grandfather, passed away on January 5, 2024, in Starkville, MS, following a brief illness.
He was born on January 24, 1944, in Itawamba County, one of ten children to the late Roy Clifford Bennett and Ruby Tallant Bennett.
He is preceded in death by his parents, as well as his sisters, Geraldine Bennett Brown and Lilly Bennett Frederick, and his brothers, Roy Bennett, Jimmy Bennett, Jackie Bennett, and Jerry Bennett.
Left to cherish his memory is his devoted wife of 55 years, Patricia Bennett, and their children: Sandy (Scott) Simpson-Helms, Brian (Kim) Bennett, and Cynthia (Todd) Martin. Roy’s legacy lives on through his grandchildren who affectionately called him Pop: Amber (Johnny) Beck, Curtis (Colette) Helms, Ashley Helms, Bates Bennett, Brody Bennett, Briggs Bennett, Emmett Martin, Avery Martin, and Nolan Martin. He was also blessed with great-grandchildren: Madilyn Beck, Braylon Lane, Will Beck, John Beck, and Eliza Helms. Additionally, Roy is survived by his sisters Etoyl Bennett Alred, Nellie Bennett Gault and Pattie Bennett Armstrong.
Roy and Patricia’s journey began on January 20, 1968, when they exchanged vows in Huntsville, Alabama.
Education played a significant role in Roy’s life, as he graduated from Itawamba Agriculture High School in 1961. He furthered his studies at Itawamba Community College, earning an Associate Degree in 1963. In pursuit of knowledge, Roy moved to Starkville to attend Mississippi State University in the early 70s.
Roy’s dedication to serving his country was evident through his 41 years of military service. His military career commenced with the National Guard in 1965, and he continued his honorable service with the United States Army Reserves until retiring in 2006 with the rank of Chief Warrant Officer 4.
Throughout his life, Roy held various employment positions, showcasing his strong work ethic and commitment. His career included working at Brown Engineering in Huntsville, AL, followed by serving as a night watchman at Arnold Industries in Starkville. After a brief military course at Fort Sill, OK, Roy returned to Mississippi and worked at Taylor Machine Works in Ackerman, and managed Parkside Apartments in Starkville. He joined Phelps Dodge upon their opening (later HI-TECH Cable Corporation and SouthWire), where he remained until his retirement in 2006.
He was a proud member of the American Legion, where he enjoyed sharing stories of his time in the military. In his free time, Roy was an avid sports fan, passionately supporting Mississippi State Sports since his time at the university in the 70s. He also wholeheartedly cheered on the teams at Starkville Academy, where his grandsons showcased their athletic talents.
Family and friends are invited to pay their final respects on Thursday, January 11, 2024 at Welch Funeral Home on West Lampkin Street in Starkville, MS. Visitation will be from 12:00 PM-2:00 PM with a service in Welch chapel beginning at 2:00 PM followed by a graveside service at Odd Fellow Cemetery on University Drive. Services will be conducted by Reverend Larnzy Carpenter and will include a graveside military ceremony.
Pallbearers will be Roy’s grandsons- Johnny Beck, Curtis Helms, Bates Bennett, Brody Bennett, Briggs Bennett, Emmett Martin, Avery Martin, and Nolan Martin.
The family kindly requests any memorial donations be made to two organizations that held a special place in Roy’s heart: Disabled American Veterans and the Boy Scouts of America Council, where his daughter and grandsons actively participated. Donations can be sent to the following addresses:
Disabled American Veterans State of Mississippi, PO Box 1579, Jackson, MS 39215-1579 or to Boy Scouts of America Greater Tampa Bay Area Council, c/o Catherine Eisenheart-Mora, Timucua District Executive 13228 N Central Ave., Tampa, FL 33612
The family would like to express their heartfelt gratitude for the compassionate care provided by the Oktibbeha County Hospital ICU staff and Dr. Steven Brandon during Roy’s time of need.
Roy Clifford Bennett, Jr will forever be remembered for his dedication to family and country, and his generous heart. May he rest in eternal peace.
