Naomi Anne Bennett

Naomi Anne Bennett, born May 31, 1931, died on August 1, 2022. Anne was born into a large and loving family in Cumberland Furnace, Tennessee. As the youngest of eight children, she was born at home two months early. Using rural ingenuity, her family incubated her in a blanket lined box in their wood burning oven. With the oven door open, her mother and older sisters attentively minded the baby for days until her survival was certain. Anne’s determination and grit began early and carried her throughout her life. Anne’s mother and father, James Edwin Ferebee and Mary Slayden Ferebee, were the honored and dedicated parents of James, Mary Sue (Huffine), Ida Bea (Parker), Ethel (Asbury), Ruth (Creek), Maude (Mathis), Will, and Anne. Anne was predeceased by her brothers and sisters. Anne lived in Old Hickory, Tennessee, and later in Nashville during her late teen and young adult years. She was employed by South Central Bell (now AT&T). She met Nashville bus driver, James Bennett, on his route at 3rd and Church St. in 1953. Six weeks later, they were married. James and Anne had a loving marriage which lasted until James’ passing in 1994. After 16 years as a stay-at-home mom, Anne returned to work at AT&T. She retired in 1992 and left behind many co-workers who loved and respected her. In 1995, Anne moved to Knoxville, Tennessee. Anne’s years spent in Knoxville were happy and productive ones. She made many friends and enjoyed living near her daughter and her family. Finding a new church home at West End Church of Christ, she attended services regularly and was very active in the church community. Anne was always available to help any friend who had a need. She baked dozens of cakes and other confections during the holidays. Her gifts were so popular friends and family would place requests for the delights. In 2019, Anne moved to Parkview Senior Living in West Knoxville and found herself in a fun new community. She delighted in new friendships and activities that filled her days. Anne leaves behind a family who treasured her presence each day. She was predeceased by her husband James P. Bennett, son-in-law, James D. White, and infant son, Kevin William. Anne is survived by son, David James Bennett (Elena) and daughter Mary Ann White, loving grandchildren Natalie Bennett (Greg Soble), Rachel Davidson (Jack), Emily Castillo León (Eduardo), and her great-grandchildren Caroline and Levi Davidson and Lucas and Mateo Castillo León, as well as many beloved nieces and nephews. Anne’s life was marked by her love of the Lord. She lived a life full of compassion and love. Everyone who knew Anne loved being in her presence. She exuded joy and contentment. Anne leaves behind a bright light that is dimmed but not extinguished. Her kindness and love live on with all who knew her. A Graveside Service will be held at Woodlawn Memorial Park, 660 Thompson Ln, Nashville, TN, on Thursday, August 11th at 11:00am CST. A Celebration of Anne’s Life will be at Parkview Senior Living, 770 Broome Rd, Knoxville, TN, on Sunday, August 14th at 4:30pm EST. In lieu of flowers, consider a donation in Anne’s memory to Hardin Valley Church of Christ or West End Church of Christ for local community outreach projects. Rose Funeral and Cremation- Mann is honored to serve the family and invites you to view and sign their online guestbook at rosefuneraltn.com.

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Naomi Anne Bennett

May 31, 1931 - August 1, 2022