Billy Bennett

Billy J. Bennett, 85, of Poplar Bluff, Missouri, passed away Sunday, Sept. 3, 2023, at Oakdale Care Center.

Bill was born Dec. 29, 1937, to Brytle and Emma (Lankford) Bennett in Kennett, Missouri.

Bill was a member of First Baptist Church of Poplar Bluff. He was a member of the Missouri National Guard for three years. After being honorably discharged, he went on to work for the Missouri Pacific Railroad in March of 1960. He retired from the Union Pacific Railroad in September of 2001. Bill was a local chairman and delegate of Local 330 of the United Transportation Union for over 20 years during that period. In his spare time, he enjoyed fishing and hunting. Bill welcomed others into his home for weekly Bible studies for several years. His greatest joy in life was spending time with family and friends.

Bill is survived by one sister, Linda (Robert) Palmer; one brother, John (Sherry) Bennett; life partner of over 50 years, LaDonna Bennett; two brothers-in-law, Jimmie Swindle and Dennis Knight; one sister-in-law, Donna Bennett; along with numerous nieces, nephews, and extended family members.

Bill was preceded in death by his parents; two sisters, Sue Swindle and Junell Knight; one brother, Jerry Bennett.

Visitation will be held from noon-1 p.m. Saturday, Sept. 9, 2023, at Cotrell Willow Ridge Funeral & Cremation Services. Funeral service will follow beginning at 1 p.m. with nephew, Marcus Knight officiating. Entombment will take place at Memorial Gardens Mausoleum.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations can be made to the American Cancer Society or the American Heart Association.

Cotrell Willow Ridge Funeral & Cremation Services is honored to serve the family and friends of Mr. Billy J. Bennett.

Online condolences can be made at www.cwrfcs.com.