Essie M. Bennett

Mrs. Essie M. Bennett, age 92, of Bartow, died Monday, November 24, 2008, at the Rohr Nursing Home in Bartow. Born April 4, 1916 in Alma GA, Mrs. Bennett has lived in Bartow since 2001, moving from Wauchula where she had been a longtime resident. Mrs. Bennett owned and operated The Fabric Shop in Wauchula for many years and made beautiful custom drapes for many homes in Hardee, Highlands and Polk Counties. She drove a school bus for the Hardee County Schools for 20 years. Mrs Bennett and her husband Junior Walter Bennett were charter members of the Southside Baptist Church of Wauchula and faithfully served there. Mrs. Bennett is preceded in death by her husband of 52 years, Junior W. Bennett; a son, Jasper W. Bennett; a daughter Myrle Elaine Dickinson and two sisters: Pauline Hilton and Ruby Padgett. She is survived by three daughters: Martha B. Bell of Bartow; Jeannie Jernigan & husband Wayne of Wauchula; Mary Beth Bryant & husband Minor of Bowling Green; one son: Randy L. Bennett & wife Lynn of Brandon. She is also survived by 15 grandchildren, 29 great grandchildren and one great great grandchild. Family will receive friends Friday, November 28, 10-11 am at Southside Baptist Church in Wauchula. Services will follow at 11:00 at the church. Interment will follow at Wauchula Cemetery. Whidden-McLean Funeral Home, Bartow in charge of arrangements. Condolences to family at www.whiddenmcleanfuneralhome.com