We are deeply saddened to announce the passing of our beloved Nancy Louise Bennett on May 4th, 2025. Nancy’s life radiated warmth, kindness, and an unwavering love that enriched the lives of everyone around her.

Born on February 8th, 1941, in Primrose, Kentucky, to Rebecca and Carl Callahan, Nancy grew up alongside her brothers, Danny and Jack and many cousins and relatives. Their childhood was filled with adventure—running through hills and jumping in the creeks in rural Kentucky. During summers, with cousins arriving from northern locations, laughter was everywhere, and her childhood was simple but full.

Nancy’s journey led her to Michigan, where she completed high school and secretarial school, and began working at the Excello Company—where she met the man who would become her devoted husband, Graham.

Married in 1963, Nancy and Graham built a life enriched with adventure and activity. They traveled the United States and Canada in a motorhome that Nancy lovingly outfitted with her exceptional seamstress talents—creating custom cushions, curtains, and sunshades to make it more homey. Their summers were spent with brothers and cousins at family property in Hesperia, Michigan, enjoying roasting fruit pies and marshmallows by the fire and driving up and around the sand dunes on Lake Michigan. Summers also were for celebrating the bonds of family at never-a-dull-moment annual reunions in Canada and Kentucky.

As life evolved, so did her expression of love. Whether accompanying Steve to Michigan Tech at Houghton, MI or traveling with Ann and Jodi for sporting adventures, Nancy’s presence was a constant comfort. Even as her children ventured out on their own, she found a renewed purpose working with the Commerce Methodist Church, as Church Secretary.

When her own Mother needed support, Nancy’s selfless spirit shone brightly. Nancy was always there for her Mom, especially after her father’s passing so early in her life.  Her steady and compassionate care for both her family and friends became the hallmark of a life lived with profound sensitivity. She was always the first to extend a helping hand, lighting the way with kindness and genuine concern for others.

In her and Graham’s retirement years, every day was an opportunity for a new adventure—whether taking leisurely drives through Kensington Metropark, planning weeklong trips with her daughter Jodi’s family, or setting off with Ann on spontaneous journeys to warmer southern locales. Their visits to see friends in Myrtle Beach, the weekends of peace and nature in Pigeon Forge, Tennessee, and long-lasting friendships at the Wixom Historical Society all reflected a life enjoyed in full, surrounded by love.

Nancy leaves behind a legacy defined by compassion and care. She is survived by her dear Brothers, Danny and Jack (Myrtle), her cherished Brother-in-Law Ralph, her loving children, Steve Bennett (Kevin), Ann Bennett, Jodi Michela (Mike), along with her treasured grandchildren, Nicholas Michela (Taylor) and Rebecca Michela.  She held dear to her heart countless nieces and nephews, and a multitude of friends whose lives she forever touched. She is preceded in death by her loving husband, Graham Bennett, her granddaughter Hannah Michela, her sisters-in-law Janet Callahan and Donna Naidow, and her nephew Michael Naidow.

Nancy was truly one in a million—an example of love and kindness who made every family gathering and friendly encounter a treasured moment.

To the world, she was a nurturing Mother; to her family, she was the very heart that kept them together. While her physical presence is missed beyond measure, the warmth of her love will forever guide and inspire us. 

Nancy and Graham did not wish to have funeral services, we will remember them both at a Celebration of Life gathering, on their Wedding Anniversary June 15th, 2025 at Kensington Metropark where we are constructing a bench in their Honor.  Please contact Steve, Ann or Jodi (the Bennett children) if you have any opportunity to attend.

We miss you, Mom, and we hold you in our hearts always.