Donna Dee Bennett

Donna Dee Bennett, age 74, passed away on Tuesday, August 1^st, 2023, in Nashville, TN. Donna was born in Springfield, IL, to parents Donald and Mary Williams, on March 25^th, 1949. Donna is preceded in death by her parents, Donald Eugene Williams, and Mary Delores Williams nee. Cardwell. She is also preceded in death by her sister, Deborah Rae Baker. Donna is survived by her brothers and sisters, Denise Ann Groves, Jamie Darlene (Kevin) Davis, Darrell Don (Linda) Williams, and Daniel Jonathan (Amy) Williams. She is also survived by her husband of 53 years, George “Ray” Bennett Jr., and her children, Christopher Shey Bennett, Jason Anthony (Amy) Bennett, and Nathan Gregory (Megan) Bennett. She is survived by her 11 grandchildren, Aidan, Ethan, Annalise, Lucy, Parker, Hayes, Nora, Sophia, Rachel, Ruby Love, and Miles.

We celebrate and honor the remarkable life of Donna Bennett, a loving wife, a beloved mother, a devoted churchgoer, and a beacon of love and laughter. Donna, who touched the lives of many, departed this life on August 1, 2023, leaving behind a profound legacy of selflessness, humor, and unwavering dedication to family and community.

Donna was the embodiment of maternal love, tirelessly and selflessly devoting herself to the well-being of her family. Not only did Donna radiate love within the walls of her home, but her presence was also a comforting beacon within her church. A devoted servant of the Lord, she passionately and wholeheartedly served her church community at First Baptist Church of Herrin, Illinois for 27 years, as the church secretary, with unwavering dedication. Whatever the need—whether it was organizing events, lending kind ears, or offering spiritual guidance--Donna tirelessly committed herself to uplifting the spirits and nurturing the souls of those around her.

But amidst the responsibilities of a mother and steadfast dedication to her church, Donna also knew how to brighten hearts through her undeniable sense of humor. With a quick wit and infectious laughter, she had the ability to lighten any room and bring smiles to the faces of those in her presence. Laughter became her way of spreading joy, and in each shared chuckle, her radiant spirit shone brighter.

One of Donna’s greatest joys of her life was her title of “MawMaw” and participating in and witnessing the accomplishments of her cherished grandchildren. She was a proud and devoted grandmother never missing a single activity or event they participated in.  From cheering them on the sidelines of sporting events to applauding at school performances, her love and support were unwavering, undoubtedly leaving a beautiful permanent mark on their lives and hearts. 

As we say our goodbyes to Donna let us remember her selflessness, dedication, and sense of humor. Though her physical presence may be gone, her legacy will forever be engraved upon our hearts. Let us celebrate the love she showered upon her family, the compassion she shared with her church community, and the joy she brought through her laughter.

In remembrance of Donna, let us carry forward her legacy of love, selflessness, and unwavering commitment to family, the Lord, and the community. May we continue her tradition of spreading joy, kindness, and laughter to all those who cross our paths.

A visitation will be held at a Alexander Funeral Home and Cremation Center on Saturday, August, 5th, 2023, from 10am until 12pm. Our service will start promptly at 12pm, with a burial to follow at Crestview Memory Gardens.

Alexander Funeral Home and Cremation Center are to oversee all funeral arrangemetns. 584 Nashville Pike, Gallatin, TN 37066 Phone: (615) 502-0011 Online Condolences may be expressed at alexandergallatin.com