Paul Bennett

"The greatness of a nation can be judged by the way its animals are treated."

Mahatma Gandhi

Paul Bennett, age 77, passed away peacefully at home on Sunday, October 25, 2015. He was born in Big Stone Gap, VA in 1937 to W.H. Bennett and Gladys Bennett.

He was a member of Trinity United Methodist Church and a 50+ year member of the Masonic Lodge in Big Stone Gap. While living in Big Stone, he served on the volunteer fire department. He was a member of the National Guard serving in Fort Leonard Wood, Missouri and Fort Knox, Kentucky.

He retired from Eastman Chemical Company in 1997 after 31 years of service. Paul served as an active volunteer for the Sullivan County Humane Society for 14 years. He especially enjoyed working on rebuilding cars with his long-time friend, Jim Wood.

Paul was often called a second dad by his children's friends as they were growing up because he always made them feel so welcome and enjoyed having them around so much, no matter how many were there at one time. He will be remembered for his quick wit and intelligence, in addition to his strong Christian faith and a deep compassion for all of God's creatures.

He was preceded in death by his parents and a daughter, Karen Leigh Bennett in 2000.

Paul is survived by his wife, Carol of the home; daughter, Julie Bennett and her boyfriend, Johnny Hyatt of Mount Carmel; his adoptive granddaughter, Holly Hyatt of Indiana and Mount Carmel; and by his beloved dogs, Susie, Sam, and Bradley.

At his request, he will be cremated and no services will be held.

Those who wish may make donations in memory of Paul to Sullivan County Humane Society, P.O. Box 922, Kingsport, TN, 37662, or to The Bridge Home No Kill Animal Rescue, 2061 Highway 75, Blountville, TN 37617.