James - Bennett, Jr.

James Bennett

July 22, 1936 - September 15, 2023

Fresno, California - James Bennett passed away peacefully at the age of 87 on September 15, 2023. James was born on July 22, 1936 in Pine Bluff, Arkansas. He is survived by his wife of 57 years, Rosie Lee Bennett, five sons, Alton (Adrianna) Bennett of San Antonio, Texas; Stacy (Camelia) Bennett of Fresno, California; Brian (Lucille) Bennett of Fresno, California; James C. (Stacey) Bennett of Summerville, Georgia; Wayne (Dawn) Bennett of Charlotte, North Carolina; one daughter, Rosalyn Bennett of Fresno, California; 13 grandchildren; 2 great grandchildren; siblings Ruby Adams of Cleveland, Ohio; Josephine Williams of Las Vegas, Nevada; Billy (Carol) Reed of Mesa, Arizona; and Bea (Lee) Fowler-Brown of Marietta, Georgia. James also leaves behind numerous nieces, nephews, and a wide circle of extended family and friends.

James is preceded in death by his parents, Luella and James Bennett Sr.; and Beatrice and C.P. Reed; daughter, Lisa Alvarez; and siblings Daniel Turner, Percy Jones and Della Garrett.

In 1951 James moved to Madera, California where he met and married Rosie on February 24, 1966. Together they had seven children; five sons and two daughters and raised them in Madera. On August 7, 1976, he was baptized as one of Jehovah’s Witnesses and dedicated the remainder of his life educating others about the Bible and helping them build a relationship with Jehovah God. He shared in the full-time ministry for more than 40 years.

James and Rosie moved to Fresno in 2005 to be closer to their grown children and grandchildren and have resided in Fresno since then.