David M. Bennett, Christian man

David M. Bennett of Knoxville, Tenn., formerly of Milton, passed away during his sleep Monday, April 7, 2025. Dave was born to the late Russell and Ruth Campbell Bennett Aug. 21, 1957, in Milford.

He was a 1975 graduate of Cape Henlopen High School and graduated from Bob Jones University with a bachelor’s degree in business management. David was a faith-filled Christian and regularly attended City Hills Church, Faith Promise, and Solway Church of God during his various seasons of life.

David was a dedicated employee and manager during his entire adult life. He moved to Knoxville in the late ‘80s to manage Ryan’s Steakhouse and spent the last 27 years of his life at Valley Produce, from which he was planning his retirement for April 14. He was an avid lover of Carolina shag and member of the Society of Stranders’ Smoky Mountain Shaggers. He loved spending time with his family and travelling to Delaware and North Myrtle Beach. On these trips, he enjoyed visiting family and friends to continue making lifelong memories. Dave was loved by all who knew him, never met a stranger, and always had a practical joke ready to make those around him laugh.

David was predeceased by his parents, Ruth and Russell Bennett; brother, Wayne Bennett; and a nephew, Evan Bennett. He is survived by his son and daughter-in-law, Michael and Esther Bennett (Ritchey) of Knoxville, Tenn.; his siblings, Michele Bernheimer (Joe) of Milton, and April Irelan (Don) of Millsboro; and nieces and nephews, Dawn Johnson (Ukie), Rhonda Brittingham and Buddy Brittingham (Melody), Patrick Irelan (Taryn) and Chris Irelan (Lori), and Amy Peck (Bob), Nathan Bennett (Janice), Cynthia Thrift (Adrian), Summer Bennett and Cory Bennett.

A memorial service will be held at 6 p.m., Saturday, May 31, at Old North Abbey Church, 2537 Fairmont Blvd., Knoxville, Tenn.

A memorial service and celebration of life in Delaware is being planned for a later date.