Junior Bennett

It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of a true American hero, Junior Bennett, 94, of Weirton who succumbed to lung cancer after a brief and valiant battle.

Junior Bennett was born in Adele, Georgia on November 21, 1928, and passed on August 30, 2023, leaving behind a legacy that will forever be cherished by his family, friends, and all who had the privilege of knowing him.

Junior’s journey through life was marked by dedication, resilience, and unwavering love. He was preceded in death by his beloved wife of sixty years, and now joins her in eternal rest. Junior will be remembered with love by his two loving sons, Patrick (Denise) and David (Nancy), who admired and cherished their father’s wisdom, strength, and unwavering love.

His legacy continues through his cherished grandchildren: Anthony Bennett, Terese Bennett, Jennifer McRae, Lexi Haws, Anna Bennett, Jennifer DiBello, and David DiBello. Moreover, he was blessed with great-grandchildren, Mia, Gianna, Dominic, Daniella, Dylan, Wyatt, Claire, Chloe, and Kade, who brought him immense joy and warmth throughout his life.

Junior Bennett’s dedication to serving his country was nothing short of remarkable. He retired as a Sergeant Major in the United States Marine Corps, having devoted thirty years of his life to the service of his nation. His commitment and valor were most evident during two distinguished tours of duty in the Korean conflict and two more in the Vietnam conflict. Junior earned three Purple Hearts for injuries sustained in the line of duty, though he earned a fourth, he declined in order to spare his mother the anguish of hearing about yet another injury. Such selflessness defined his character and exemplified the spirit of a true hero.

Beyond his military service, Junior was known for his passion for golf. A true aficionado, he excelled in the sport, securing numerous club championships and maintaining a remarkable zero handicap as a scratch golfer well into his fifties. His achievements on the golf course were a testament to his dedication and competitive spirit.

Junior Bennett will be dearly missed by all who had the honor of crossing paths with him. His strength, love, and unwavering commitment to his family and his country will forever be etched in our hearts and memories. As a U.S. Marine Sergeant Major and a loving father, grandfather, and great-grandfather, Junior’s legacy will continue to inspire generations to come.
In his passing, we salute Junior Bennett for his service to our nation, his love for his family, and his achievements on and off the golf course. May he rest in eternal peace, reunited with his beloved wife, and may his memory be eternal.

Friends and family are invited to pay their respects on Wednesday September 6, 2023, from 4 to 7 PM at the Greco Hertnick Funeral Home 3219 Main Street Weirton.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated 10 AM on Thursday at Saint Joseph the Worker Roman Catholic Church, Weirton, WV.

Pastor, Very Rev. Dennis R. Schuelkens, Jr., V.E. will preside

Military Honors will follow at Saint Paul’s Cemetery, Weirton, WV.

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