James "Manuel" Bennett

James Manuel Bennett, 74, of Owensboro passed away March 11, 2025, at Home. He was born on May 19, 1950, to the late Cecil and Addie Poston Bennett. Manuel proudly served two decades in the United States Navy, voluntarily enlisting in 1968 to be stationed in Republic of Vietnam. He was assigned to the Seabees Military Construction Battalion. Manuel also served as an anti-submarine air controller, naval warfare specialist, and instructor during his tenure in the Navy. He served aboard the USS Capodanno, USS Nimitz, and the USS Cochrane. Manuel was particularly proud of his overseas assignments in the Philippines, Morocco, Puerto Rico, and Yokosuka, Japan.

Upon retirement from the Navy, Manuel was a master electrician specializing in industrial equipment while employed by Norman King Electric. In addition to his country, he also proudly served God. Originally a part of Century Christian Church until its closure, he was a loyal member of First Christian Church where he participated in the outreach programs. He also really enjoyed teaching Sunday School.

He was a happy uplifting person that found joy in the smallest of things. Manuel spread happiness and love throughout his life. As a kind and caring person does, he could be found regularly filling the blessing boxes throughout the community. He also spent free time visiting VA members.

Manuel was talented at repairing things and was often called upon by friends, family, and the church community to repair just about everything. He was a great teacher as seen in his naval career, but also during his years as an electrician. Manuel loved showing how things worked and how to solve problems.

He was also a most devoted husband, brother, father, and grandfather. Manuel made the holidays joyous and memorable for his family. In retirement, he adored spending time with his grandkids and had a weekly play date with each of them.

Along with his parents, he is proceeded in death by his wife of 24 years, Sandra Childers Bennett.

Left to cherish his memory are his children, Logan (Ashley) Bennett, Rachel (Matt) Hamilton, Heather (Jeff) Hardy, Jon (Lori) Beach, Holly (Jeremie) McCarty, Justin Beach; grandchildren, Cadence and Melody Hamilton, Khreelyn Bennett, Ryan and Reagan Hardy, Caitlin and Hayden Beach and sister, Janet Gail Bennett.

The funeral service for Manuel will be at 2 p.m. Saturday March 15, 2025, at Glenn Funeral Home and Crematory with Rev. J. Chris Michael officiating. Visitation will be held from 3 until 7 p.m. on Friday and from 12 p.m. until the time of service on Saturday at the funeral home. The burial will be in Pleasant Grove Cemetery following the service.

Memories and condolences may be left for the family by visiting www.glenncares.com