Kelly Bennett

Smithville – Kelly “Pappy” Bennett, 83, died on Wednesday, September 11, 2013, at his residence. Born on January 12, 1930, in Monroe County, he was a son of the late Lynwood and Beulah Parthula Vandiver Bennett.

Mr. Bennett was a graduate of Pearce Chapel School. Working at American Motors in Illinois from 1950 until retiring in 1972, he returned to Smithville as the owner/operator of Amoco Service Station. He was a member of Amory Church of God of Prophesy. A one-of-a-kind, persistent, and humorous person, Mr. Bennett was very unselfish and loving to his family. In addition to working at the gas station, he enjoyed reading the daily newspaper.

Survivors include his wife of 19 years, Willie Cox Bennett, Smithville; family members, Melinda Hatley and Sherrel Cox, Smithville, and Phillip Cox (Felicia), Olive Branch; grandchildren, Jordan Cox (Stacy), Chanda Clifton, Megan Clifton, Harley Hatley, and Caitlin Cox, of Smithville; Cason Cox, Nettleton; Caleb Cox, Smithville; and Delane and Alex Drew of Olive Branch; great-grandchildren, Anna Claire, Jon Coble, Hunter, Jacob, Claire, Kaylee, and Kholten; several nieces and nephews; and special friends, Leo and Glenda Holloway.

In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by 2 brothers, Frank and Jr. Bennett; step-son, Marty Cox; granddaughter, Tory Cox; and great-grandchildren, Emma Grace and Hunter Dale Cox.

Private family services will be held at a later date.

Memorials may be given to First Friends, PO Box 117, Amory, MS 38821 or The Mourning After, a nonprofit for Victims of Violent Crimes, 60020 Court St., Smithville, MS 38870.

Memories and condolences may be shared with the family at eepicklefuneralhome.com.