"Willie, I will always cherish the BEAUTIFUL childhood memories growing up during the different stages of our lives. You are my first cousin, however your more of a brother that I was so blessed to have. As a big brother/cousin you taught me so much! We\'ve had our ups & downs, LAUGHTER & tears but through it all we always maintained our Brother/Sister Relationship. You will forever be in my thoughts & in my heart! I love you so much! Much Love & Regards, Tina (Bennett) Martin"
In loving memory of
Willie Earl Bennett
November 8, 1949 - April 4, 2021
To watch the service, click on the link below.
https://boxcast.tv/view/willie-e-bennett-celebration-of-life-service-996302
Willie Earl Bennett was born in Morris, Alabama, November 8, 1949 to Willie Mae Bennett and Willie Starky. At the age of seven his family moved to Omaha, NE. Willie attended Omaha North High School, before enlisting in the United States Army in 1968.
During his enlistment he served as a Sergeant in the Vietnam War before being honorably discharged. While enlisted, Willie received the National Defense Service Medal, Vietnam Service Medal, Vietnam Campaign Medal, and the Army Commendation Medal.
Following his military service, Willie had three loving daughters and a grandson, whom he raised as his son. Willie retired after working 18 years at Campbell Soup.
Willie loved sports. His favorites teams were the Chiefs, Huskers, and the Creighton Blue Jays. He played softball for the Raiders, Aquarius, and Thomas before coaching the MAPS women's softball team. Willie was also an avid golfer, where he placed in several local tournaments. He taught elementary and middle school students golf at Steve Hogan's First Tee and Omaha Public School.
Willie was an active member of Morning Star Baptist Church, where he met and married the love of his life Johnnetta (Coffiel) Bennett. While at Morning Star, he served as a Trustee and was also in the Men's Laymen Ministry.
Willie loved traveling for golf and leisure. Some of his favorite places were Arizona, Alaska, Canada, Jamaica, Dominican Republic, and traveling to see Creighton's softball team.
Willie was preceded in death by his father Willie Starky. Left to cherish his memories are his mother, Willie Mae (Bennett) Williams, his devoted wife of 14 years Johnnetta Bennett. Siblings; Pearl Smith, Ernestine Dorsey, Richard Williams, Jeannette (John) Morehead, Pastor Bruce (Patricia) Williams. Children; Marvella Warren, Andrea (LaKeith) Richardson, Tracie (Jermaine) Burton, Stephon Flowers (adopted son). Stepchildren; Mike (Sun-Hee) Coffiel, Sabina Coffiel, Renee Coffiel, Nita (Terrance) Spencer. Special cousins; Eileen Watson, Tina (LeRoy) Martin. Many grandchildren, great-grandchildren and a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, relatives, and friends.
Tributes
"R.I.P to my cousin Willie aka JUNEBUG is what the family call him! He was amazing man of God who loved his family & always took care of business! He will be missed dearly here on earth! We love you Willie! May God continue to cover his Beautiful wife & Family during this difficult grieving process. Amen! Sincerely, Crystal Clark (Tina Martin\'s daughter)"
"My cousin and dear friend, you will never be forgotten. My prayers of comfort to the lives you have touched and hearts that grieve your absence."
"My prayers and condolences to the family, May God provide you with peace and strength during this difficult time of mourning. Psalms 29:11"