On August 9, 1929, Mary Eliza Bennett was born and raised in Charles County, Maryland to the late Julian and Mary Smith. The youngest of three children, she was educated in the Charles County Public School System and raised by her great-aunt and uncle after her parents passed away. Her brothers, Joseph and Julian Smith also preceded her in death. 

Mary was married to the late Ernest Edward Bennett, Sr. From that union, ten children were born: eight sons (one predeceased son; Irving) and two daughters. She was a homemaker until after her eighth child was born. During her career years, she worked as a Public-School Teacher’s Aide, Head Custodian, and a Postmistress servicing a rural post office in Pisgah, Maryland.

In 1988, Mary moved to Prince Georges County, Maryland and continued her deep love for children by starting an in-home daycare center. God blessed her to be a blessing to many families, and to this day the families remember her loving care. Ultimately, she made an everlasting mark in the lives of many children.

Mary was a dedicated member of From the Heart Church Ministries for thirty-four years. She was active in the Missions Ministry, Seniors Ministry and Telephone Reception Ministry. She also volunteered with other churches and community organizations to care for children, and planned trips and activities for seniors at local Senior Centers. Although Mary did not drive, she was always diligent to be the first to arrive at church or any event.

She always had a song in her heart, and could be heard humming gospel songs, including her favorite “Praise Him, Jesus Blessed Savior”. Mary had a quiet demeanor but was a recognized leader. She loved to read, recite poetry, journal, and write plays. Among her notable playwriting was a theatrical production from the Book of Ruth. Most of all, Mary had a genuine concern for the well-being of others and loved her family. She cherished spending time at large and small family gatherings to enjoy good food, fellowship, and music. Oh, how she loved to hear her sons play their instruments and sing beautiful melodies. Well into her later years, Mary enjoyed taking outings, and the company of family and friends at home, to include the company of her “Cabbage Patch” dolls.

Mary leaves to cherish her memory: two daughters, Jeanette (Kenneth) and Juanita (Alphonso); seven sons, Ernest, Jr. (Ellen), James (Judy), Joseph (Marinda), Earl, Alvin (Dorothy), Jerome, and Eric (Vanessa); twenty-five grandchildren; thirty-two great-grandchildren; one great-great grandchild, and a host of nieces, nephews, relatives, and friends.