James Bennett Obituary

James Floyd Bennett CHARLESTON - James Floyd "Jim" Bennett, of Mount Pleasant, SC, passed away peacefully, surrounded by his family, on May 7, 2024 at the age of 83. Born on November 20, 1940 in Wheeling, WV, he was the son of Thurman and Gale Bennett. Jim was raised in Morgantown, WV, where he enjoyed scouting, played the saxophone in the Morgantown High School band, and cultivated a passion for electrical engineering. He earned his Bachelor's and Master's degrees from West Virginia University. His professional journey spanned several decades, starting with a 20-year tenure at C&P Telephone and AT&T, followed by various management consulting roles, and capped with a successful nine working years in London, England. In 2000, Jim retired to Charleston, SC, where he met and married Judy Oltmann Bennett, becoming a cherished member of her extended family. Jim's love for the water was a constant throughout his life, from childhood days at Fairview Beach, VA, to his later years enjoying the shores of Surfside, SC; Chappaquiddick, MA; and Folly Beach, SC. He cherished the time spent fishing, shrimping, and exploring Charleston's nearby waters with family and friends. Jim's irreverent sense of humor, infectious laugh, and the joy he took in walking his dog, Diva, will be fondly remembered by all who knew him. In retirement, he remained active, serving on the board of the Bishop Gadsden Community, participating in the Fraternal Order of Elks, and volunteering at the VA Hospital and Charleston Police Department. Jim was predeceased by his parents, step-father, Kermit Gray, brother, Thomas Bennett, step-son-in-law, John Bethea, and second wife, Margaret Hazard Bennett. He is survived by his wife, Judy; brother, George Bennett; sons James Bennett, Jr. and John Bennett; mother of his sons, Martha Bennett; step-daughters, Kelly Beam and Loren Bethea; step-son-in-law, Scott Beam; grandchildren, Eleanor Bennett, Gale Bennett, James Bennett III, and Edward Bennett; step-grandchildren, Jesse Beam (and wife, Carra), Joshua Beam, and Zachary Bethea (and wife, Ulyana); and step-great-granddaughter, Eden Beam. A private celebration of Jim's life will be held by the family. Jim's legacy of warmth, laughter, and dedication to his family and community will forever be cherished and remembered. A memorial message may be sent to the family by visiting our website at www.jhenrystuhr.com.