A homegoing service for Mrs. Mary L. Bennett will be held today, August 7, 2013, 11:00 a.m. at Bostick-Tompkins Funeral Home with burial at Fort Jackson National Cemetery.

orn to the late William L. Higgins and the late Annie Mae Syrkett, Mary began her earthly journey on November 21, 1949. As a youth, Mary was educated in the Edgefield County School system, later graduating from C.A. Johnson High School in 1967. She confessed Christ as her Lord and Savior, always trusting in him and firmly standing on His promises. She knew that He would never leave nor forsake her.

Mary was an active, longtime member of Fellowship Baptist Church where she served as a Deaconess, Treasurer of the Women’s Auxiliary group and as Chairperson of the Hospitality Ministry.

Mary’s passion for cooking, inherited from her mother, was thoroughly enjoyed by family and friends. Providing a good meal for her family was a designated time for fun and fellowship. Mary’s passion for cooking led her to a long-term job with Eurest Dining Services, from where she retired in 2012.

Mary was a joy to meet and had a way of showing love to everyone. She will always reside in the hearts of her family and friends.

Her memories will always be cherished by her loving and dedicated husband, Deacon Roosevelt Bennett; her children, Ava L. Kimble, Robert K. Clarke, Ernest A. Clarke – all of Columbia, South Carolina, and Jason A. Clarke of Ashland, Kentucky; seven grandchildren; siblings: Reverend Verdell (Reverend Jimmy) Duggan of Columbia, South Carolina, Annette Freeman of Columbia, South Carolina, Rachel (Anthony) Jones of Atlanta, Georgia, Marie Higgins, Peggy (Micheal) Martin, Anjanette (Darryl) Hayes, Charleen Ricker, all of Greenwood, South Carolina, Nathanial (Joyce) Freeman of West Columbia, South Carolina, Apostle Wendell Freeman of Columbia, South Carolina, William Higgins, Jr., Edward Higgins, both of Greenwood, South Carolina, and William (Diane) Harrison of Upper Marlboro, Maryland; two uncles, Herbert (Linda) Higgins of Greenwood, South Carolina and Charles Battles of Honea Path, South Carolina.