Joanne Bennett

Joanne Grace Bennett passed peacefully at home on March 1, 2026. She was surrounded by love and family. Leaving behind a legacy of caring and devotion.

Joanne graduated from Columbus Junction High School, where she not only excelled in her studies but also showcased her athletic abilities by playing basketball.

She married James E. (Jim) Bennett on June 14, 1959. Alongside her husband Jim, she co-owned and operated Bennett's FloorMart. Joanne later transitioned into the world of finance, managing Credit Unions, and also enjoyed her time as a consultant with Mary Kay Cosmetics. After retirement, she enjoyed a part-time job at the local Super Dollar, where she loved meeting and talking with customers.

Family was the cornerstone of Joanne's life. She was one of nine siblings, and extended family was especially important. Holidays were particularly special and often celebrated at large gatherings. Her devotion to her family continued as she embraced the role of grandmother, showering her grandchildren with love. Joanne often babysat for neighborhood kids and showed her compassion through acts of kindness, such as cleaning homes for the elderly.

Joanne created many memories through camping adventures with Jim and their kids. They traveled in their motor home to various destinations for fishing, motorcycle riding, and spending time with fellow camping families. Her camping travels took her to many local favorites and included trips to Mexico and Colorado. She also enjoyed trips to Las Vegas and a trip to Spain and Portugal.

Joanne loved to send cards, and she would always take the time to include a message about what was happening in her life or how special you were to her.

Joanne leaves behind her daughter, Nancy Reed, and son, Bret Bennett. She is lovingly remembered by her grandchildren: Adam Reed, Kayla Wiese (Jeff), Ryne Bennett (Rachel), Hailey Elias (Zach), and Jacob Bennett (Lucas). Her legacy continues through her great-grandchildren, Cora, Devan, Travis, Kylar, Lawson, Mason, Madi, Rowan, Lila, Adler, Pierson, and Callan, brother, William (Bill) Gray (Pam), and sisters, Debbie Gray and Pam Hungate.

Joanne is preceded in death by her son, Jeff Bennett, her devoted companion Jim Bennett, her parents, Bob and Marcella Gray, and her brothers, Ron, Bob, Kevin, and Scot, along with her sister, Connie Hankins. She will be deeply missed by all who knew her, leaving behind love, laughter, and cherished memories that will forever remain in the hearts of her family and friends.

There will be a private ceremony for Joanne later this spring, where she will be laid to rest with family at the Columbus City Cemetery, Columbus Junction, Iowa.

Family and friends are invited to share memories and express condolences on her memory page at www. mvcremation.com.