Carla M. Bennett, 67, of Galesburg, peacefully passed into the arms of her beloved Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ, on Sunday, December 15, 2019 at OSF Hospital in Peoria.
Carla was born July 21, 1952, in Galesburg, the daughter of Charles R. “Chuck” Bennett and Mary E. (Kennett) Bennett. She was educated in Monmouth area schools and graduated from Monmouth High School in 1970.
Carla’s life was marked by singular courage and perseverance; though she suffered from severe epilepsy, endured multiple strokes and dealt with a number of other serious afflictions, she did not waver in her commitment to her greatest calling: She was a single mother who raised the son she adored and who adored her. He, in turn, cared for her with a devotion that words simply cannot describe. The bond of love between them was truly remarkable.
Carla had a delightful – and sometimes delightfully outrageous – sense of humor, which she maintained until her earthly life came to an end. Everyone who met her came away with a smile.
She was an active presence in the faith community at Marigold Rehabilitation and Health Care Center.
Carla is survived by her loving son, Jason D. Sheppard, and his fiancée, Christina Ryba, both of Galesburg; husband, Stan Lodwick of Galesburg; two brothers, Ben Bennett of Monmouth and Jimmy Bennett of Rozetta Township; and two granddaughters, Seairra and Karisma Sheppard.
She was preceded in death by her parents and one brother, Percy Bennett.
Cremation rites have been accorded. A Celebration of Life will be held 3 to 5 p.m. on Saturday, December 21, 2019, at the Thomas Legacy Center at Watson-Thomas Funeral Home. A memorial fund has been established for St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital and The Epilepsy Foundation. Online expressions of sympathy may be sent to the family at www.watsonthomas.com.
