Obituary of Jane M. Bennett
Jane M. Bennett, passed away peacefully at the spirited age of 98 on Monday, September 4, 2023. Born on August 11, 1925, in Muhlenberg Hospital to James and Kathryn McCarthy, Jane spent the majority of her life in Plainfield and later resided in the towns of her children.
After World War II, Jane's path crossed with George Elliott Bennett, a brave soldier who had returned from the war decorated with a Bronze Star. The two were united in matrimony on August 21, 1948, at St. Mary's Church in Plainfield, beginning a journey of love and commitment.
Jane enjoyed working as a telephone operator for AT&T. Her proudest accomplishment was becoming a mother to 4 daughters and a son.
A devout Catholic, Jane was an active member at St. Mary’s church. In her younger years, she was a member of the Rosary Society. Her faith was not just a religion but the foundation upon which she built her life.
Jane was a lover of the simple pleasures. She cherished family vacations and visits at Ocean Beach, Seaside Park, and LBI, finding solace in boardwalk strolls and the art of people-watching. The beach was her happiest place.
She was the epitome of grace and poise. A woman of character, Jane was known for her unwavering kindness, never uttering a negative word about anyone. Her infectious humor and boundless spirit were her trademarks, endearing her to everyone she met.
Despite facing challenging bouts of cancer, Jane defied the odds, her zeal for life propelling her to enjoy another four decades surrounded by loved ones.
She traveled extensively with a close-knit group of friends, exploring places from Hawaii and Ireland to California and Florida. Jane loved spontaneous trips with her family to Atlantic City.
However, it was her role as a doting grandmother and great-grandmother that truly brought her joy. They called her Bammie, as did many others who knew her. Jane loved attending the many sporting and school events, cheering with unmatched enthusiasm. She had a unique nickname for each grandchild, and they will forever carry the melody of "A Bushel and a Peck" in their hearts, a song she lovingly sang to generations.
Jane was predeceased by her beloved husband, George Elliott Bennett, in 1989, her precious son, James Bennett, and her loving granddaughter, Tamara Jane.
She is survived by four daughters, Georga Leonard and her husband, Dave, Jody Battoni and her husband, Neil, Barbara Lizzi and her husband, Lenny, and Mary Jo Ricci and her husband, Roger. She is also survived by her sister, Gerri Granzetto, from Woodstock, Illinois. Jane's legacy lives on through her 12 grandchildren Dayna (Mike), David (Jennise), Neil (Mylissa), Sean, Nicolette (Randy), Tamara, Len (Inga), Christiaan (Day), Roger (Michelle), Alivya (Phil), Bryann (Mike), Haylee (Scott) and 20 great-grandchildren, with one more on the way.
Jane's life was a testament to resilience, love, and unyielding faith. She leaves behind a legacy of joy, and an indelible mark on the hearts of all who were fortunate to know her.
In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the DJD Friedland Foundation or to the Wounded Warriors Project.
A memorial mass will be held on Saturday, September 16, 2023, at 10:00 a.m., at St. Joseph R.C. Church, 41 Manning Avenue, North Plainfield, NJ. The burial will be held privately.
