John Leroy Bennitt Sr.

Mr. Bennitt was born May 22, 1928 in LaPorte, Indiana to Leroy and Hazel (Dipert) Bennitt.

He was a World War II Veteran while serving his country in the United States Military for 20 years. Upon retirement, he eventually established residence in Crawfordville, Florida. After working in various occupations, he found his niche with the Tallahassee Democrat, where retired in 1993.

Mr. Bennitt was a devoted husband, caring father, and affectionate grandfather. In his younger years, he enjoyed bowling, fishing, and playing horseshoes. He was tremendously passionate about Florida State University Athletics.

He was preceded in death by his loving wife of 51 years, Annie Joe (Brady) Bennitt; daughter, Christina Bennitt; and grandson, Bobby Ray “BJ” Chason.

He is survived by his children, John Bennitt, Jr. [Jeanne] of LaPorte, IN; Frances Walters, Terry Bennitt, Raymond Bennitt [Kim] of Crawfordville, FL; and Hazel "LeAnne" Hotchkiss [Keith] of Havana, FL; six grandchildren; five great-grandchildren and many extended family members and friends.

A memorial will be held in his honor Friday, October 18, 2013 at 2:00 PM at Culley’s Funeral Home on Riggins Road in Tallahassee, Florida. In honor of his passion for sports, and love for the Florida State Seminoles, please join his family in dressing in your Florida State attire.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to Big Bend Hospice.