Durward A. Bennett Jr.

Durward Bennett, husband, father, grandfather, and great grandfather, crossword puzzle enthusiast, and huge sports fan, especially watching his grandchild play ball, passed away peacefully on April 8, 2024 at the age of 93 surrounded by his family.

Durward moved to Sylacauga in early 1943. He played football, basketball, and tennis at Sylacauga High School earning a varsity letter in all 3 sports. he was a member of Glee Club and S Club. He served as sports editor on the school paper.

He married his high school sweetheart Meda Byrd Vardaman on September 2, 1952 and they were married for 71 years. He retired from Kimberly CLark in 1988 with 39 years of service.

He loved spending time with children and grandchildren and he stated, "Was proud of all their achievement."

Durward is survived by his wife, Meda V. Bennett; his daughter Sandy Murchison (Wayne); and his son Douglas "Speedy" Bennett (Paula); his grandchildren Aric Murchison (Angie), Angie Murchison Horton (Brian), and Reese Jacobs (Michelle), his great grandchildren Aric Jace Murchison (Marisa), Kaitlin Murchison, Baylee Horton (Carlen), Bennett Horton, Brady Horton, Connor Jacobs, and Owen Jacobs, and his great great grandchildren Madelynn Murchison, Everleigh Murchison and Beckham Horton.

Durward was preceded in death by his father Durward Bennett Sr. and his mother Sara Bennett; his brother James Emory Bennett and his sister Annette Hicks.

A visitation for Durward will be held Friday, April 12, 2024 from 12:00 PM to 1:00 PM at Curtis and Son Funeral Home, followed by a funeral service at 1:00 PM. Durward will be laid to rest in Marble City Cemetery. All services will be officiated by Rev. Rodney Frost.

Serving as pallbearers are Aric Murchison, Jace Murchison, Baylee Horton, Bennett Horton, Brady Horton, Brian Horton and Gary Prince.

The family will be receiving flowers or in lieu of flowers, contributions in Durward's memory may be made to a charity of your choice.