Obituary of Margaret Jean Patterson Bennett

Margaret Jean Patterson Bennett, 83 of  Bedford, died Wednesday, August 10, 2022 after a courageous battle with cancer.  She was born June 3, 1939, to the late Kyle H. Patterson and Lura Johnson Patterson of Bedford County.  She was also preceded in death, in her early years, by her sister Maybelle Patterson and just recently her brother, Edward R. Patterson.  

Jean was selected as May Queen of Bedford County in 1958.  After graduating from New London Academy, she went to work at the C&P Telephone Company and then on to G.E./Ericsson where she retired after 30 plus years.

Jean worked hard while raising her two children, Sammy and Kathy after the passing of their father and her husband, the late A.C. Bennett.

Through her work at Ericson, Jean met a friend and companion, Richard W. Clark of Rustburg.  They often traveled together and visited many places.  They shared a special love that she cherished until his passing just last December.

One of Jean's greatest loves was becoming a grandmother to Sam and Melody's two children, Audrey and Alex.  She loved and supported them in all that they did.  Jean passed away with both of them by her side.  Always a kind and compassionate Lady, Jean Bennett will always be remembered as one of the nicest people to ever walk the face of the earth.  All who knew Jean were blessed to have had her in their lives, no matter how well she knew you, Jean's smile would brighten your day.

Jean is survived by her son, Sam Bennett and close friend, Kim Arrington; daughter, Kathy Bennett-Burns and husband, Wesley Burns; her grandchildren, Audrey P. Chevalier and husband, MCPO Josue Chevalier, Alex Bennett and girlfriend, Jamie Smith; sister-in-law, Magdaline B. Patterson, and many nieces and nephews whom she loved dearly.  Jean will be greatly missed by all.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that those who wish to honor Jean's memory, please consider making donations to Nicopolis United Methodist Church of Bedford, C/O Lindsey Davenport, Treasurer, 1113 Davenport Drive, Bedford, VA  24523.

A Memorial Service will be held at 11:00 AM on Monday, August 15. 2022, at Nicopolis United Methodist Church, Bedford with Pastor Russ Alden officiating.  The family will receive friends from 2PM until 4 PM on Sunday, August 14th, 2022 at Updike Funeral Home, Bedford.

Arrangements are being handled by Updike Funeral Home & Cremation Service, Bedford.