Georgina Eleanor Bennett (Lansing)

Georgina Eleanor Bennett, 73, was born on July 28, 1941, in St. Paul, MN. Her death on May 23, 2015, was the end of her long struggle with health challenges. The eldest child of George and Ruth Taylor Williams, Gina lived her early years in Minnesota and in Benton Harbor, MI. She has been a resident of Lansing, Michigan for 53 years.
Georgina is survived by her husband, John Charles Bennett, who she married on September 14, 1963. Also, surviving are siblings; Sandra Nadine Williams Bate and Michael K. Williams, niece, Defina Williams of Las Vegas, NV and godchildren; Kenya Husband of Atlanta, GA, Rita Sinkfield Belin, Esq of New York, NY and Dr. Falyne Fry of Lansing, MI. Georginas kind heart, inquisitive mind and beautiful smile will be missed by her family and many friends.
A 1959 graduate of Benton Harbor High School, Georgina attended Tennessee State University and held Bachelors and Masters degrees from Michigan State University. Ginas patient and loving persona made her excellent in her chosen profession. She was an early elementary teacher with the Lansing School District for 32 years, retiring in 1999. Many of the kindergarten, first and second grade students at Allen, Northwestern and Kendon schools knew and loved Mrs. Bennett. Early in her career Gina was an active member of her teachers unIon (LSEA). She served on a variety of committees including the negotiations committee. Her participation in the Lansing School Japanese Exchange program combined two of her passions; exploring different cultures and working with children. The last part of her career she was known for her work with her puppets. She and her friend Karen Jackman, brought the puppets to life for many elementary students.
Georgina was a long-time member of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Lansing Alumni Chapter.
Gina was a skilled artist and crafts person who created beautiful quilts, clothing and wall hangings.
Throughout her life, travel was an important opportunity to explore new cultures and she went to many places all over the world. Each spring break and summer vacation Gina traveled with family and friends to Mexico, the islands of the Caribbean, Australia, Europe, Africa, the Middle East and Malaysia. She brought back memories and treasures from these places and made them lovingly a part of the Bennett home.
Georginas family would like to thank her Caregiver Bessie Daniel, the Great Lakes Hospice staff and the Mother Theresa staff for their attention and care. Memorial service is being held at Trinity AME Church on June 15, 2015 at 10:30 a.m. Arrangements entrusted to Paradise Funeral Chapel and Paradise Arrangement Services.
In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made in Georginas memory to Trinity AME Church, Great Lakes Hospice and the Mother Teresa House.
Memorial Service: Monday, June 15, 2015 12:00 Noon
Family Hour: 11:00-12:00
Trinity AME Church
3500 W Holmes Rd.
Lansing, MI 48911
Phone:(517) 882-5722
Rev. Lila Martin, Pastor