Teddy Raphel Bennett, Jr., 70

Teddy Raphel Bennett, Jr., 70, of Fleming Island, FL passed away Thursday, April 13, 2023.  Teddy was born in Statesboro, GA to the late Winifred and Teddy Bennett, Sr.  He moved to Florida from Brunswick, GA and spent the last twenty years in Clay County.  Teddy graduated from Glynn Academy in 1970 as well as The University of Georgia in 1974.  His work career was spent in risk management with Belk and Northeast Florida Educational Consortium where he retired in 2014 after 23 years. 

Teddy was an avid golfer in his retirement and enjoyed playing every Tuesday with his friends.  He was an active member at Hibernia Baptist Church where he loved his Wednesday morning Bible study and Bert Shivers’ Sunday School Class.  Teddy’s strong faith in his savior, Jesus Christ, was a large part of his life.  He was a man of God, trusting Him to provide, especially during his illness. 

Teddy was well respected in every avenue of his life and described as a “class act”.  He was funny with a great sense of humor and dry wit.  Teddy was a good man, a generous and faithful servant to his friends and family.  He fought his battle with faith, dignity, and humor.  He will be missed by too many to count. 

Teddy was preceded in death by his parents, Winifred and Teddy Bennett, Sr.  He is survived by his loving wife of 48 years, Verlene Sapp Bennett; daughter, Lori Mead (Chris); two grandchildren who call him “Papa”, Austin Mead and Lilly Kate Mead; sister-in-law, Sharon Dunlap (Norman); as well as nieces, nephews, and friends. 

A memorial service will be held Wednesday, April 19, 2023 at 11am at Hibernia Baptist Church with Scott Yirka officiating.  Visitation with the family will be held one hour prior to the service at 10am. 

In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations are made in Teddy’s memory to Hibernia Baptist Church, https://www.hiberniabaptist.com/give/. 

Arrangements are under the care of Russell Haven of Rest Cemetery, Funeral Home and Cremation Center, 2335 Sandridge Road, Green Cove Springs, FL  32043.  Family and friends may share their condolences at: www.RHRFH.com 904-284-7720