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James M. Bennett

  • On June 12, 2023
  • 11 Comments

James M. Bennett, age 79, of Upper St. Clair, passed away peacefully with family by his side, after a long battle with cancer on June 9, 2023. Born on March 18, 1944, he was the son of the late Margaret and Fred Bennett.

Jim is survived by his loving wife of 31 years, Terry Bennett; loving father of Chris Bennett and Jon Bennett; grandfather of Sarah, Jack, Eleanor, and Francine Bennett; dear brother of the late John Bennett and late Dotty Bennett; uncle and great uncle of Doug (Lisa) Max and Maria Bennett, Judy (Scott) Beedle, the late Doug (Lindsie) Marsteller, Jennifer (David) Silvers, David (Michael Botts) Camilla Marsteller Botts, John Kiselica, Alex (Angela) Nick Kiselica, Justin, Benjamin, and Samuel Marsteller.

Jim was the former Director of Bands and Chairman of Fine Arts for the Upper St. Clair School District. Serving the community for 30 years he took immense pride in the accomplishments of his students. He often spoke of his good fortune having had the opportunity to share his love of music with thousands of students.  Jim was a devoted alum of West Virginia University.

Jim, together with Dean Streator founded Community Band South providing an opportunity for musicians to continue their musical pursuits as adults. During his retirement, Jim managed the Upper St. Clair Theatre, bringing groups like River City Brass Band and Town Hall South to the community. An avid foodie, he continued to build on the cooking skills taught to him by his mother and loved hosting holiday meals for his family.

A memorial service will be held at John McMillian Presbyterian Church (875 Clifton Road, Bethel Park, PA, 15102), on June 24, 2023, at 10:00 am.

In lieu of flowers memorial contributions may be made to the family.

 

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11 Comments

Melissa Barnes
Mr. Bennett’s memorial service was a wonderful tribute! I enjoyed hearing the humorous stories in the family remarks. Mr. B made each of us feel like a member of his bandland family. I was a second generation student. My mom was a student in the 70s and I was in the late 90s. I still remember standing with the band behind the stadium before a game, Mr. Bennett was giving a pep talk of sorts and he threw in the fact that one of the freshmen was the child of a former student and pointed me out. I was both mortified and honored. ☺️ Thank you for creating the opportunities for many wonderful memories through band camp, ski bus, musicals, and trips! We love you, Mr. B!
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