Cathleen Bennett

Cathleen Anne Bennett, age 63, transitioned to her eternal home on December 29th, 2024. Throughout her life she prioritized her Lord Jesus Christ and her family. One of her favorite Bible verses was, “As for me and my household, we will serve the Lord” (Joshua 24:15). Born into a military family, Cathleen was the eldest of five children. From a young age, she embraced a role of nurturing and guidance, often stepping in as a second mother to her youngest siblings. This early responsibility, along with her God-given maternal gifting shaped her lifelong commitment to caring for others. Her family's travels brought her a rich tapestry of experiences, fostering a deep appreciation for diverse cultures and traditions. These experiences cultivated wisdom and grace, which she carried into every aspect of her life.

Cathleen is survived by her devoted husband of 41 years, Timothy Dale Bennett; her three beloved children, Joshua James Bennett, Rachel Marie Watson, and Jacob Glen Bennett; her cherished grandchild, Caspian John Watson; her loving mother, Deborah Jean (Ed) Tywon; and her adoring siblings, Robert Merritt (Kim) Sponseller, Mary Jane Gauer, Mark Douglas Sponseller, and Daniel James (Melinda) Sponseller.

Cathleen exemplified unconditional love and unwavering dedication as a disciple, wife, mother, and friend. She poured her heart into supporting her husband and raising her children, instilling values like serving the Lord, kindness, resilience, and a passion for learning. Her nurturing spirit extended beyond her family; through her church and social work (she received a BA in Social Work from the University of Akron), she touched countless lives, offering support and compassion to those in need.

Cathleen found joy in the beauty of the natural world. An avid gardener, she cultivated vibrant flowers and plants, often accompanied by the songs of her beloved birds. Her home was also a haven for her dogs, Daisy, Molly, and Lucy, whose companionship she treasured.

Cathleen had a great sense of humor that could light up any room. She faced life’s challenges with remarkable strength, including bravely facing over a decade-long battle with serious health issues. Despite the toll of leukemia and the side effects of chemotherapy, she met each day with courage and grace, ultimately succumbing to complications caused by heart issues that led to septic shock. But even this reminds us of another of her favorite Bible verses, “In this world you will have trouble. But take heart! I have overcome the world” (John 16:33).

Cathleen’s legacy is one of faith, love, resilience, and joy—a life lived fully and deeply. She will be profoundly missed by all who knew her. Her loved ones look forward to the day they can reunite with her forever.

Cathy’s Favorite Bible Verses (1984 NIV):

• “The Lord is my shepherd, I shall not be in want. He makes me lie down in green pastures, he leads me beside quiet waters, he restores my soul. He guides me in paths of righteousness for his name’s sake. Even though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil, for you are with me; your rod and your staff, they comfort me. You prepare a table before me in the presence of my enemies. You anoint my head with oil; my cup overflows. Surely goodness and love will follow me all the days of my life, and I will dwell in the house of the Lord forever.” (Psalm 23)
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• “As for me and my household, we will serve the Lord.” (Joshua 24:15)
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• “The Lord is compassionate and gracious, slow to anger, abounding in love.” (Psalm 103:8)
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• “In this world you will have trouble. But take heart! I have overcome the world.” (John 16:33)
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• "Above all else, guard your heart for it is the wellspring of life." (Prov. 4:23)
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• “I am the vine; you are the branches. If a man remains in me, and I in him, he will bear much fruit; apart from me, you can do nothing.” (John 15:5)
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• “Let us not become weary and doing good, for at the proper time, we will reap a harvest if we do not give up.” (Gal. 6:9)