"The ultimate measure of a man is not where he stands in moments of comfort and convenience, but where he stands in times of challenge and controversy". - Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.

Eugene Bennett was born February 6, 1949, in Manning, South Carolina to the parents of Almira and Richard Bennett.  He was the second youngest of seven siblings.

Gene, as he was often affectionately called by peers and friends, professed his life & love of Christ at an early age. During his younger years, he attended Manning Training High School.

After high school, Gene left Manning and moved to New York to be closer to his sister and her children. He later relocated to Philadelphia, PA where he met the love of his life, Barbara Bowman. In 1970, they were united in holy matrimony. Their union was blessed with three sons, Myron, Jermaine, and Craig. In August of 1977, they explored giving their children a better life and relocated their family to Garland, TX for a more promising career. Gene worked at Johnson Control for 17 years and later retired Penske Corporation.

Eugene was the ultimate sports fanatic. Not just one particular sport, but all sports. He often watched the Weather Channel and loved to watch Wheel of Fortune. His favorite pastime was entertaining guests and cooking on the grill. He had many interests, but none compared to his love and devotion to The Lord and his Church. He was a loyal, dedicated, servant of New Mount Hebron Baptist Church where he served as a Deacon, trustee, and usher for over 30 years.

Sunday, February 2, 2020, the Master graciously, poetically welcomed Eugene home. He went peacefully with his family and beloved wife at his side.  He ushered many, now he is sitting with the Lord.

Eugene was a very authentic, funny, and loving person. So much so, others outside of his grandkids would call him by "Papa". He was preceded in death by his parents, siblings Robert, Smith, Albert, Melvin, and Rosemell.

He leaves behind to cherish his dedicated wife Barbara, sons Myron (Ashlee) Jermaine (Tracy) Craig (Meme) Grandchildren Chandler, Lauryn, Payton, Radiance, Xavier, Jaxson, Myron Jr., Xavier, Kolby, Jasmine, Autumn, Jermaine II. David, Loreal, Daniel, Tre'sur, Cody. Sister Dora Grant, Effie Pompey (James) Brother-in-law Edward Bowman (Andrea), play daughter Janice Pompey, dear friends Darryl, John and a host of nieces and nephews.