William Joseph “Joe” Bennett, Sr, a resident of Parkersburg, WV, passed away peacefully at his home on Monday, March 16, 2026, after a lengthy illness. Joe was born September 25, 1939, and was the son of Noah L. Bennett and Evelyn M. (Knopp) Bennett.
Joe is fondly remembered for his steadfast support of unions, lively political conversations, quick wit, unwavering loyalty to the WVU Mountaineers, and a talented woodworker. He had an infectious sense of humor and often quoted the Red Green Show: “If the women don’t find you handsome, make sure they find you handy.”
As a devout Catholic, Joe was actively involved with St Francis Xavier Catholic Church dedicating his time to volunteer with the church youth group and at the Parrish Center. He was a proud Army veteran, who deeply cherished his faith, family, and country.
He was preceded in death by his first wife, Zella E. (Nelson) Bennett, the mother of his five children, who passed away in 1994. Joe is survived by his beloved wife, Bernadette (Weinheimer) Bennett, with whom he shared 30 happy years.
Joe’s legacy continues through his five children: William Joseph Bennett, Jr of Belpre, OH; Elizabeth A. (Bennett) Beck of Myrtle Beach, South Carolina; Melissa D. (Bennett) Mueller of Parkersburg, WV; C. Shawn Bennett of Los Angeles, CA; and Mona K. Bennett of Parkersburg, WV.
He was further blessed and deeply loved by his ten grandchildren and six great-grandchildren.
A Mass of Christian Burial will be held 11:00 AM Saturday, March 21, 2026 at St. Francis Xavier Catholic Church in Parkersburg with Rev. John Rice officiating. Burial will follow in Mt. Olivet Cemetery with military honors. Visitation will be 6:00 PM – 8:00 PM Friday, March 20, 2026 at Lambert-Tatman Funeral Home, Green St.
Lambert-Tatman Funeral Home is honored to serve the Bennett family.
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