James "Jim" Earl Bennett III

Jim was born May 30, 1951, at Great Lakes Naval Hospital, North Chicago, Illinois to the late James Earl Bennett, Jr. and Mary Catherine Scott. The eldest of five brothers, Jim was a natural athlete and affectionately recalled spending much of his childhood playing baseball. He became a carpenter’s apprentice after graduating high school, discovering his unique gift for building. Many of his skills, however, were self-taught. In 1974, Jim founded his own business, Bennett Construction, Inc., and proceeded to build beautiful homes for the next 22 years, including two of his own. Jim was known for his extraordinary work ethic. He was respected by his crew for working alongside them and became a mentor to many. After relocating to Naples, Florida in 1996, Jim obtained his Florida Contractor’s License and continued his career in residential construction. He retired as a business owner of New Horizon Building, Inc., and happily proceeded to travel. Some of his favorite trips included France, Colorado, Ireland, Scotland, Greece and touring the country on his Harley with his son. Jim loved nature, and had a special affinity for the mountains, especially during the Fall. He also loved history, camping, politics and a good Guiness. Jim was known for his charming and witty sense of humor, and more often than not, the mischievous twinkle in his eyes. Anyone that met him knew his greatest passion was his family and his favorite “job” was that of being a dad and grandpa. He rarely missed a game, school event or an opportunity to brag about their achievements. Affectionately called “Mr. Perfect” by his grandchildren, Jim had a reputation for order and cleanliness, spending hours detailing his motorcycle and vehicles. Always able to laugh at himself, Jim leaves behind a legacy of love and laughter.

As Jim battled Parkinson’s Disease with Lewey Body Dementia, and more recently, bladder cancer, he managed to be both brave and compassionate. Jim never lost his sense of humor and endeared himself to many of the staff and residents of Bayshore Memory Care during his short stay of only two months. He was quick to give a hug or an “I love you”. During his final days, his family was present to offer their support and comfort, and yet, Jim found a way to console them with his strength and love, just as he'd always done.

Jim is survived by his middle school sweetheart and devoted wife of 55 years, Marsha (Fletter) Bennett, his son James Earl Bennett IV (Kerri), daughter Kimberly Ann Dennis (Scott), grandchildren Ashlyn, Aiden, Brittany, Cory, Kasie, Kaitlyn, Kandace, and his brothers Scott, William and Donald. In addition to his parents, Jim is preceded in death by his brother Robert.

A celebration of Jim’s beautiful life with be held at a later date. In lieu of flowers, the family requests memorial contributions be made to the Lewey Body Dementia Association (LBDA) and Avow Hospice.

“He will wipe away every tear from their eyes, and death shall be no more, neither shall there be mourning, nor crying, nor pain anymore, for the former things have passed away”. Revelation 21:4