- Bennett, Shirley M. Clayton, Ga.
CLAYTON, Ga. - Shirley May Bennett (nee Bechter) passed away peacefully on Feb. 16, 2026, at the age of 92, following a lengthy battle with multiple myeloma. Shirley was born and raised in Amazonia, Missouri, to the late Rose and John Bechter. She graduated as valedictorian of the Savannah, Missouri, High School Class of 1951, where she was active in 4-H and received the Missouri 4-H State Food Preservation Award.
Shirley and her husband, Jack, raised their family in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, and Jacksonville, Florida, before eventually settling in St. Augustine, Florida. There, Shirley built a long and successful career as a Realtor, working in the profession for many years before retiring in 2023. She later moved to Clayton, Georgia, to be near her daughter, Bonnie.
Shirley and Jack shared a love of travel and explored the United States extensively while raising their family. After their children were grown, they traveled throughout the world. Switzerland remained Shirley's favorite destination, and she enjoyed visiting there several times with the Swiss Lodge of St. Joseph.
Shirley was preceded in death by her beloved husband, Jack.
She is survived by her son, Tom Bennett (Vanessa); daughter, Bonnie Seay (Rick); grandchildren Amanda Freeman (Eric), Nathan Seay, and Bryan Bennett; and great-grandchildren, Brittany Mota, Cayla Carney, and Jessica Freeman.
A funeral service and interment of ashes will be held on Saturday, June 13, 2026, at 1 p.m. at St. John's Church, in Amazonia, Missouri.
Shirley will be remembered for her warmth, determination, and love of family. She found joy in bringing people together, whether at home, through her work, or during her many travels. Her kindness, resilience, and adventurous spirit left a lasting impression on everyone who knew her. She will be deeply missed and lovingly remembered by her family and friends. As published in the St. Joseph News-Press.
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1933 - 2026 (92 years)
