Marion Johnson Bennett was born on July 11, 1926, in Poughkeepsie, New York, to Hazel J. Powell and Roland Johnson. The eldest of three siblings, Marion spent her formative years on her grandparents' farm in Stanfordville, New York—a place that held some of her fondest childhood memories and helped shape her strong work ethic and love for family and community. A gifted student, Marion consistently excelled academically. She graduated a year early from Millbrook High School, where she was the salutatorian of her class in 1943.In 1948, Marion married the love of her life, Preston L. Bennett, in a beautiful ceremony held at the family farmhouse. Together, they built a life rooted in love, faith, and service, raising four children: Sharon, Judith, Jon, and Timothy. Marion was a woman of determination and strength. She brought excellence to every role she held, no matter how big or small—beginning her working life cleaning homes and serving in restaurants. Committed to growth and learning, she later returned to school to earn a secretarial certification, which led to a long and respected career with Alpha Laval in Poughkeepsie, New York. Guided by her deep faith and sense of justice, Marion also took part in the historic March on Washington in 1963—standing alongside thousands in peaceful advocacy for equality and civil rights. Even after a brief retirement, Marion continued to share her wisdom and talents with others. Her love of reading and learning led her to work for many years at the Millbrook Library. Deeply devoted to her faith, she served her church in multiple leadership roles and faithfully stepped in wherever help was needed.Marion was also an active and beloved presence in her community. She was a member of the Millbrook Historical Society, the Burbonettes, and the TWINKS. She served on the Boards of the Millbrook School System and Lyall Memorial Community Church, volunteered at The Barn Thrift Shop, assisted at local voting polls, and proudly led an exercise class for seniors—encouraging others to stay active and connected. On Christmas Eve, December 24, 2025, Marion was peacefully called home to be with the Lord.
She was preceded in death by her beloved husband, Preston Bennett; her daughter, Sharon Bennett; her siblings, Virginia Duncan and Roland Johnson; her parents, Hazel and Roland; and her cherished stepfather, Howard "Pete" Powell. Marion leaves to cherish her memory her daughter Judith Coleman (Aubrey); her sons Jon Bennett (Debbie) and Timothy Bennett (Karen); six grandchildren; a host of great-grandchildren; and many loving nieces, nephews, relatives, and dear friends. A true matriarch and pillar of her community, Marion deeply loved her family and found joy in bringing them together. She was compassionate, generous, and always willing to help those in need. An avid reader and lifelong learner, she remained active well into her 90s—taking daily walks and exercising regularly.[TC1]  Marion's legacy of faith, service, and love lives on through the many lives she touched and the family she so beautifully nurtured.
Visitation will be held on Saturday, January 10 from 10 am – 11 am  at Lyall Memorial Federated Church, 30 Maple Ave., Millbrook. Funeral services will follow from the church at 11 am. Interment will follow in Nine Partners Cemetery, Millbrook. Arrangements have been entrusted to Allen Funeral Home, Millbrook.

[TC1]We can remove this paragraph if this is too long to fit into the program.