PHILLIP BENNETT

Mr. Phillip A. Bennett, 75, transitioned into eternity March 27th at Texarkana after a bout with liver cancer. Born to Mildred and John Bennett on April 15th, 1946 in Brazil, Indiana. Phil made a difference in this world by dedicating himself to friends, family, church, his cherished teaching career and students of 48 years, and his succession of dogs-always by his side – Sergeant, Rowan and finally Gracie. He was truly a “gentleman and a scholar”, but kindness, gentleness, unique humor, laughter, and a giving nature were his true gifts. After graduating Wiley High in Terre Haute, IN, he received his B.A. then two masters at ISU in Latin and school counseling. Phil taught Latin, English, and sometimes driver’s ed at Greensburg, Brazil and Jeffersonville, Indiana, then at Texas High and Townview in Dallas; he retired at 70. He also worked for the Milwaukee Railroad, was courier for Union Pacific in Texarkana, taught at Texarkana College and was a licensed real estate and insurance agent. He was an honorary Kentucky colonel and the youngest 32nd degree Mason in Indiana. Phil read voraciously and traveled throughout Europe, with Latin studies in Cambridge, England, and Greece, Israel, and Egypt. A rail buff, he loved traveling trains through the US, and also was an avid stamp and coin collector. He now meets his mother, grandmother Gertrude, Aunt Madge and others he loved. Left here to honor his memory include Sue Anderson Woodall, sister, Rita Elrod, niece, Susan Crittenden, nephew, Anthony Zachary and their families and his precious circle of friends, including Todd and the Davis family, friend, Raymond Waller, Leea Kleem, and the many members of his beloved church, where he proudly served as an usher. A Funeral Mass will be held at 10:00 a.m. at St. Edwards Catholic Church, 416 Ash St., Texarkana, AR on April 23rd. Interment immediately following. Arrangements under directions of Lyles Funeral Home, Inc. Online registration at lylesfuneralhomeinc.com.