It is with deepest sorrow that we announce the death of our precious child, Tate Thomas Bennett. Tate passed away April 15, 2022, at home surrounded by the family he loved so much. Tate was born January 25, 1993, in Salisbury Maryland, to Susan English and Tom Bennett. For the past 16 years, Tate was raised by his mother Susan and her husband, Kevin English.
Tate was a very special young man who faced many challenges due to his diagnosis of Dravet Syndrome. Dravet syndrome is a severe form of epilepsy characterized by frequent, prolonged seizures. This syndrome significantly impacted his intellectual and physical ability, making it difficult for him to walk and impossible for him to speak. Nevertheless, he was a warm wonderful child with a radiant smile and loving personality.
Tate was an incredibly tender child who enjoyed and shared affection with family and friends. When he felt safe and loved by a person, Tate enjoyed sharing toys and sippy cups with others. He especially enjoyed nightly Face Timing with his sister Laura with whom he had a warm and wonderful relationship. A favorite routine occurred at bedtime as Tate shared sweet time with three of his favorites: Mama, Papa and Elmo.
Along with his parents, Tate is survived by his beloved sister, Laura Bennett, step-siblings Joel English and Melissa English, grandmothers Charlene Travers and Shirley Bennett, and nieces Savannah Harrington, Madison English, and Jamie Mann. Tate also leaves behind many aunts, uncles and cousins. Tate was preceded in death by his grandfathers, Darley Travers and Cope Bennett.
We are grateful Tate had such strong relationships with folks that cherished him. Additionally, we extend our gratitude to all the friends, educators, doctors, nurses, medical specialists and, most recently Hospice professionals and neighbors, who supported and helped us through the years.
A Celebration of Tate’s Life will be held Wednesday, April 20, 2022 at 11am at Nelsons Memorial Church in Hebron with visitation held at 10am. Rev Jim Peper will officiate. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in memory of Tate to the Dravet Syndrome Foundation ( https://www.dravetfoundation.org/donate/).
