Doris M. Bennett

Doris M. Bennett, age 90 of Eaton, OH. died Wednesday February 25, 2004 at Reid Hospital in Richmond, IN. after a short illness. Born on March 8, 1913 in Watertown, N.Y. she was the daughter of the late Roy & Belle C. (Ripley) Larkins. She has lived in Eaton since 1994 and was a member of the Central United Methodist Church in Richmond, IN. Preceded in death by her Husband: Rev. Erwin David Bennett in 1983 and a Brother: Kenneth Larkins. Doris grew up with loving parents in a Christian home. She loved music. As a girl she sometimes sang solos and played her violin in church. Doris, a wise and loving mother, spent much time with her children, taking care in molding their character and values as they grew up. She and Erwin, married for more than 51 years, had a very happy life together. Doris supported Erwin in his pastoral ministry - helping him where needed in their churches. During her life, Doris taught Sunday School classes; worked with youth fellowship groups, directed a children's choir, sang solos in church, and was involved in women's groups and Bible study groups. All through her life she was very faithful to her daily Bible reading and prayers for others. Doris had a warm heart for people. She was very kind and understanding; and brought out the best in people. She was generous to others, and was very appreciative of even the smallest things that people did for her. Ever the optimist, she saw the bright side of situations, and was not one to complain. Until his death in 1983, Doris took care of Erwin, who had Alzheimer's Disease. During part of that time, she was having chemotherapy. Her inner strength and resilience were inspiring. She survived cancer twice; and in later years had many surgeries, usually followed by complications. Again and again, she fought her way back to recovery. Finally, nearing her 91st birthday, she fought her last battle - surgery to save her life. Her fragile, earthly body failed her, but she won the prize of peacefully going Home. Those of us who knew Doris are now left with wonderful memories of a beautiful Christian woman and a life well-lived.

Survived by Daughter: Phyllis J. Bennett of Eaton, OH.; Sons: E. Kenneth Bennett of Torrance, CA. and Richard M. Bennett of Eden, N.Y.; Two Grandchildren: Brenda A. Cartwright and Mark E. Bennett; Three Great Grandchildren: Brian P. Follendorf, Nichole M. Cartwright and Brandon James Bennett.

Memorial Service will be held 3:00 P.M. Sunday - March 7, 2004 at Central United Methodist Church, 1425 East Main Street - Richmond, Indiana with Pastor Phil Dorrell and Pastor Eldon Harzman officiating.

Memorial contributions may be made to Central United Methodist Church. Family will receive friends on Sunday from 2:00 to 3:00 P.M. at the church.

Arrangements entrusted to Barnes Funeral Home- 220 East Main Street - Eaton, OH. Condolences may be sent to the family via the Guest book at www.barnesfuneralhome.com