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Kirt Bennett Obituary

Kirt B. Bennett, a financial representative with Northwest Mutual Financial Network, entered into eternal rest Monday, May 3, 2010, at Our Lady of the Lake Regional Medical Center after suffering from a stroke almost a week earlier. He was 42. Bennett was well-known for founding the Young Leaders Academy of Baton Rouge in 1993. The group made two appearances on the Oprah Winfrey Show and won the Use Your Life award in 2001; received three U.S. Presidential Service awards; the National Points of Light award in 2001; and an FBI Community Service award in 2006. Bennett enrolled at LSU on an athletic scholarship where he received a bachelor's degree in political science in 1991. He lettered three years in track, throwing the shot-put, discus and hammer. As a political science major, Bennett used his political skills to win election as president of the LSU Student Government Association. In 1993, the same year he founded the Young Leaders Academy, Bennett ran for District 67 seat. He ran for lieutenant governor in 2003. Bennett had been serving as treasurer on the Port of Greater Baton Rouge's board of commissioners. Gov. Bobby Jindal appointed Bennett to the board in 2008. Mr. Bennett was a member of Wesley United Methodist Church located in downtown Baton Rouge. Kirt was loved, admired and respected throughout the Baton Rouge community and will be greatly missed. Survivors include his mother, Nova Carlota Bennett; loving and devoted wife, Denise Bennett; mother-in-law and father-in-law, Mildred and Herman Taylor; three children, John Denham, Christiana Marie and Benjamin Taylor; a brother, Cleon Lyndon Bennett and wife Pearl; a sister, Tanya Michelle Bennett; "Granny" Dorthy Blanchard; other relatives and close friends. He was preceded in death by his father, Elden Denham Bennett. Relatives and friends of the family, parishioners and members of surrounding churches, Wesley United Methodist Church members, St. Paul's Church members, Northwestern Mutual Financial Network, Young Leaders Academy, graduates of McMain High School, A.P. Tureaud Sr. Alumni Chapter members, LSU Track & Field Alumni and Facebook friends are invited to attend the Mass of Christian Burial at St. Joseph Cathedral, 401 Main St., Baton Rouge, Saturday, May 8, at 11 a.m. Visitation begins at 9 a.m. Interment in Greenoaks Memorial Park. Arrangements by Rhodes United Fidelity Funeral Home, 2929 Scenic Highway, Baton Rouge. To sign the guestbook, please visit www.rhodesla.com.

Published by The Advocate on May 7, 2010.
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Memories and Condolences
for Kirt Bennett

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To Denise, children and the Bennett family,
We were so sorry to hear of your loss. Kirt was very inspirational to us. We remember the day we first met in McMain's office, where we all took our entrance exam. Kirt was truly a rare jewel. Be encouraged and may God continue to give you His peace that surpasseth all understanding. God Bless you...

-Tarita Hollingsworth Walker (Southlake, TX)
& Lolita Hollingsworth Minor (Keller,TX) C/O '86

June 3, 2010

Delcenia Marshall and Family

June 1, 2010

I remember first meeting Kirt during a college a track meet and was struck by his intelligence and passion. Years later, we reconnected on the campaign travel and I was astonished at how much his enthusiasm for politics and our state had grown and emboldened him to work on making things better. Louisiana has definitely lost a valuable asset and wonderful individual. My condolences go out to the Bennett Family.

Tessa Jackson

May 26, 2010

“Blessed are they that mourn; for they shall be comforted.”
St. Matthew 5: 4

Our prayers and condolences are with you at this time of your bereavement. May your beautiful memories of Kirt bring you comfort.

The road ahead won’t be easy, the pain won’t go away next week. It will take time and lots of prayer. Lean on each other and together, lean on Jesus.

God bless you.

Lindel Brown

May 21, 2010

We set out to change the world - And we did! I will miss you so much. Your light will live forever in us all! My Prayers are with the Bennett family.

In faith, and community,

Tanya Anne Callaway Crews

May 16, 2010

Dear Denise and children,
I struggle to write words to console you. I read through the samples and nothing seemed to be the right words. I want to write my own.
My family and I want to extend our strengthening thoughts from our hearts to your hearts. Even though we only knew you and Kirt from school and scouts, we feel shocked and sadden of the news of his passing. We hope the best for you and your children. Lots of love.

Meg Holford

May 16, 2010

We set out to change the world. And we did! I will miss you so much. You light will live forever in is all! My Prayers are with the Bennett family.

In faith, and community

Tanya Anne Callaway Crews

May 15, 2010

Kirt was a kind and spirited individual, full of life with a bright smile and a warm heart. He cherished his family and made a huge impact on those around him. I am praying for the family, may God give you comfort and strength. (McMain Class of 1985)

Veronica Ware Walker

May 13, 2010

Kirt, your smile and positive energy made you a pleasure to work with. You are greatly missed.

Nicole Stoufflet

May 11, 2010

May your light continue to shine. Kirt...you have been an inspiration to us all.

Kenneth Shepherd

May 11, 2010

My thoughts and prayers are with you in your time of grief. May your memories bring you comfort.

Claudia Simon Anderson

May 11, 2010

Deepest sympathy to the Bennett family from the Cyprian family.

May 10, 2010

My deepest sympathy to the Bennett family from your cousin Glennes White Alexis,
I said a pray for you today and i knew God must have heard i felt his presence in the the air the chirping of the birds
I said a pray for you today
God answer in a whisper it is well it
is well it is well with his soul

Glennes Alexis

May 10, 2010

Denise and Family,
We are shocked and saddened by the news of Kirt's passing. I wish we there to help you during this impossibly difficult time, as you were for us with Dad's stroke. Please know you're in our thoughts and prayers.
Su Kosub, Christie Ingold, Thor Jones (Harold Jones' children)

Su Kosub

May 10, 2010

Denice,
There are no words to express how so deeply sorry I am for your loss of Kirt. I can only pray that with each day that passes your pain will get a little less and more bearable and that you can find comfort in knowing that you will be with him again one day. I hope you know how many people love and care for
you, John, Christiana and Benjamin and that we are here for you now and always. If there is anything I can do please let me know. I will continue to pray that God gives you the strength to help you through the difficult days that are to come. May God Bless you, and your precious little angels always!

Pamela Jackson-Matthews

May 10, 2010

May God continue to keep you in His loving arms. Mr. Kirt was a great man. His outlook on life and the mentorship he gave was one of a kind. He truly used the gifts and talents God gave to him. May God shine His face upon you and give you peace that surpasses all understanding.

Joshua Hollins

May 10, 2010

Deepest sympathy to the Bennett family from Michael Edwards and family.

Michael Edwards

May 10, 2010

There are no words to express our heart felt sorrow for the lost of your son, brother, husband, father and friend. Take comfort in the Lord, "earth has no sorrows the heaven can not heal."

Peace and Blessings be with you always,

Fredrick, Carla, Quinnton & Christopher Anderson, neighbors of Melrose and protege of YLA

Master Quinnton Andersons

May 10, 2010

The entire community is stunned! I will never forget that Kirt was on a mission to see family's build wealth as a result of wise investments. He always shared his own personal testimony in this regard and made a compelling argument for getting your house in order. He was the consummate professional with deep roots in family, community, public service and service to his fellow man. A life well lived within a short window of time - May the Lord perfect everything concerning Kirt's wife, children, immediate and extended family, friends, associates and colleagues. Psalm 138:8

Ronnie Edwards

May 10, 2010

My thoughts and prayers are with you at this time.

Anice Smith

May 10, 2010

To Mr. Kirt Bennett Family
May God Bless and keep you. With deepest sympathy. I learned alot from Mr. Kirt Bennett and the Young Leaders Academy. I am honored and blessed to be apart of the YLA family. I loved being a Young Leader from Group #1. He will be deeply missed why I am deeply sadden. May God Bless With Lots of Love

Master Markell Kinchen

May 10, 2010

God Bless the Bennett family in your time of grief. Kirt was a great man and will not be forgotten. God will not place more on you than you can bare.

Venetia Gooden

May 10, 2010

May the love of friends and family carry you through your grief.

Gladys Sanford-Deamer

May 10, 2010

To Kirt, A great leader and friend! Make sure you let the angels hear what you have to say!

Shedrika Brunson-Green

May 9, 2010

From our family to yours..may GOD bless you. Remember memories of the life that you shared with your love will endure for a lifetime. With Deepest Sympathy...

Auguste Family

May 9, 2010

Memories are a way of holding onto the people you love and the wonderful examples they set. Kirt...you have provided so many memories that your spirit will live on forever. To his family, I know it's difficult today to see beyond the sorrow, but I hope the wonderful memories of Kirt will help to comfort you tomorrow.

Laronda Lott-Hutchison

May 9, 2010

To my childhood friend, my political adversary and facebook buddy....I will miss you as your time on this side of life has been cut short. You have lived life to the fullest and we will benefit from the riches that you left behind. Rest in peace friend. The prayers are for your loved ones left behind...oh Lord...give them strength and let them not lean on their own understanding but walk by faith and guidance through you...amen.

Dayna Collins

May 9, 2010

MY PRAYERS FOR THE FAMILY, MAY GODS LOVE COMFORT YOU DURING THIS TIME OF MOURNING.. I WAS TOLD TODAY, BY MY MOM OF KIRTS' PASSING AND WAS FLOORED....I COULD NOT KEEP MY MIND OFF THE MEMORIES OF HIM ON LSU'S CAMPUS....WHAT A WONDERFUL,GENTLE, RESPECTFUL YOUNG MAN HE WAS,AND A GOOD FRIEND AND I'M SURE HE EXHIBITED THAT IN HIS LATER YEARS, HE WAS A MAN TO LOOK UP TO THEN AND NOW.KIRT MAY YOU REST IN THE PEACEFUL ARMS OF GOD....TO HIS WIFE AND KIDS, GOD BLESS YOU, YOU WERE BLESSED TO HAVE SUCH A WONDERFUL INSPIRATION IN YOUR LIVES!

May 8, 2010

Family,We extend to you our heartfelt sympathy. Kirt was honored as our "History Maker of the Year" about 10 years ago for all of the outstanding work he did with our young people. Please know that we are praying for you.
Educators of Yesteryear Unit
Louisian Retired Teachers Association

Dorothy Wilson

May 8, 2010

A shining star has left us examples of how to carry on. Peace to his family during this time.

Grace DePass

May 8, 2010

What a wonderful life he led. Although two years my junior, I looked up to this young man. May God smile down on his wife and children.

Bruce Baker

May 8, 2010

to the bennett fly. and his Mother
mr. and mrs. norman scott
974 n. leighton dr.
baton rouge, la. 70806
melrose subdivision - neighbor

May 8, 2010

"To the Bennett Family: Cousin Kirt like his father had an extraordinary personality, loved his family, his people and life. He accomplished so much in his adult life in a short period of time compared to many. He will be greatly missed indeed. Always look to God for comfort and strength. You have our deepest condolences." - The Brown Family (New Orleans, LA)

Carla B. Pichon

May 8, 2010

Kirt was a lovely, lovely inspirational man. He was a blessing to all who crossed his path and will leave a beautiful legacy as a result of his inspired work. . . and words.
All of my blessings to his family.

Lisa Froman

May 8, 2010

We extend our sincere condolences to the Bennett Family. You are in our prayers and thoughts.

With Heartfelt Sympathy,
North Iberville Christian Academy
Ginger F. Smith, Director

May 7, 2010

Oh Denise. I am lifting you and your precious children up in prayer...praying that the peace of God which surpasses all human understanding will comfort you in a way that can only come from above. I pray you feel God's presence in a very real way. I commit to pray for you, my sister in Christ.

Denise Hale

May 7, 2010

Please know that you and your family are in our prayers.
The Rev'd Canon & Mrs D. Joseph Rhodes

May 7, 2010

To the Bennett Family
Your family has our deepest sympathy. We the staff at Shiloh Baptist Church Summer Camp will deeply miss Mr. Bennett. Kiss the kids for us and remember to keep your hand in God's hand. We love you and your family.

Sandera Jackson

May 7, 2010

To the Bennettfamily, Adam and Barbara Welcome met Kirk through our nephew Verge Ausberry Jr. We always had great respect for him. Our prayers are with you during this time.

Adam Welcome Sr.

May 7, 2010

Kirt was such an inspirational young man. When I served on the Board of the Young Leaders Academy I was always so impressed with the model he set for those young men. He was a gifted person who knew the importance of sharing his gift with others. Because he lived a life of giving he will live forever in the lives of those he touched and the ones they will touch. My prayers are with the family. He will be missed by many.

Sylvia Winder

May 7, 2010

My condolenses to the family. You are in my thoughts and prayers.

Tanya Bridges

May 7, 2010

To The Bennet Family,
Eula and I want you to know that you are in our prayers. I(Charles)was on the first board for Young Leaders. I have always had the highest respect for him. He will certainly be missed.
by all who knew him. Always remember
that earth has no sorrow that heaven
cannot heal.
Everybody at Shiloh's summer camp will
sadly miss him this summer.
Pastor Charles Smith and Eula

May 7, 2010

My thoughts and prayers are with Bennett family. I met Kirt in the early 90's when he frequented a local grocery store where I worked. We talked about my ambitions and he would always give me encouraging words. With Deepest Sympathy

Michelle Willis Wicker

May 7, 2010

Denise and Family, May God comfort you, your children and your mother-in-law at this difficult time. I was shocked and deeply saddened to learn of Kirt's death. I have watched your family at Mass and admired your closeness. One could easily see the love he had for his family. I also understand that he was a wonderful and devoted son to this mother. I hope it is a comfort for you and Kirt's family to know how much he was admired and loved by this community. Please know that his light is making HEAVEN a little brighter.

Cynthia Raby Horton

May 7, 2010

Kirt was a really good friend. He was my first Resident Assistant at LSU and made our entire become cohesive as we were all freshmen at the time. God has blessed Heaven with Kirt's presence and I celebrate the life that I knew and what he became in life. Love you and miss you...

Troy Williams

May 7, 2010

Kirt and I meet as Baton Rouge YMCA Black Achievers Award recipients in the early 90's. What a vibrant guy. Loved seeing he and Denise together. My prayers and condolences go out to Denise and family.

Ray Wright

May 7, 2010

TO THE FAMILY OF KIRT BENNETT:
As the days and weeks pass, and as you return to life's routine, may you continue to feel comforted by the love and support of family and friends. Take comfort in your beautiful memories. May GOD give you strength at this time and always.
Lovingly,

Mary Veronica Baptiste

May 7, 2010

With Deepest Sympathy......

Charles & Cynthia Lewis

May 7, 2010

The famliy is in my prayers. Kirt will truly be missed.

Nadir Nance

May 7, 2010

Denise,
My prayers and thoughts are with you and the children, and Kirt's parents and family. Humbly depend upon God for your strength and peace. His grace and love are with you, and He will carry you through this time.

Forever in our hearts and prayers,
Shirley V Crawford & Family
BRIS

Shirley V Crawford

May 7, 2010

I met Kirt at LSU in 1990 when he was President of the Student Senate. There was an instant bond between the two of us.

Art Goulas, LSU

I am leaving LSU after 43 years. My memories of Kirt will forever be with me.

Art Goulas

May 7, 2010

I was so sorry to hear of your loss. The thoughts of many are with you at this time of sorrow.

Angela-Carney Balthrop

May 7, 2010

Kirt Made A Difference In This World By Continuously Helping Others Get The Best From Themselves. It Has Been An Honor And Pleasure For Me To Have Known And Done Business With Him. May You All Find Comfort In The Memories Of Times Shared. Peace And Blessings.

Amirah Ansaar

May 7, 2010

As the days and weeks pass, and as you return to life's routine, may you continue to feel comforted by the love and support of family and friends.

Carolyn-Carney Johnson

May 7, 2010

My thoughts and prayers are with the Bennett family. May the great life Kirt encompassed give you comfort in your time of sorrow.

Rhonda Meyers Williams

May 7, 2010

I have nothing but happy memories of my friendship with Kirt during our years at Gregory and McMain. More recently I had the pleasure of keeping up with him via Facebook and being uplifted daily by his comments/thoughts. Through his family and the many others he's helped over the years his memory will forever live on & his efforts will serve as inspiration for many in the years to come.

Annette Cormier

May 7, 2010

To the Bennett Family

Extending you my deepest condolences during this very difficult time. My pray is that our Father will comfort you all and that His mercies will be with you in the days ahead.

Sonya Hall

May 7, 2010

To the Bennett Family,

I met Kirt in Middle School at FW Gregory in New Orleans. He always had a good heart. I was always proud of his many accomplishments. He definitely left a lasting impression on many people. May god continue to bless you.

Keith Sigur

May 7, 2010

To the Bennett Family, my prayers are with you at this time that you will hold on to all of the beautiful memories and remember that Kirt is in a much better place.

May 7, 2010

Prayers and condolences to you all. Know that God's grace and mercy are sufficient.

Shannon Sims

May 7, 2010

My thoughts and prayers are with you in your time of grief. May your memories bring you comfort.

Deidre Fulton

May 7, 2010

Kirt was always someone I looked forward to running into at South Blvd. He always had a smile and was eager to talk with you. I enjoyed reading his quotes on Facebook, too. He will be greatly missed. My prayers are with Denise, John, Christina, and Benjamin.
Your South Blvd. Family,
Shannon Plauche'

Shannon Plauche

May 7, 2010

Our thoughts and prayers are with you in your time of grief. May your memories bring you comfort.

Linda,Jimmy, Kimberlin and Master Christian Gaston

May 7, 2010

My prayers and condolences to Denise and the Bennett family. It is always so difficult to try to find the 'right' thing to say or do during these times. But know that although I can only imagine the loss that you are going through, I would urge you to please try to find some comfort in knowing that Kirt set a standard on how life should be lived. I think everyone's hope is that whenever we are called into the Father's arms, we will leave a positive mark on this world. And that is exactly what Kirt did. The world is a much better place because of Kirt. I saw his commitment and dedication to this state when he ran for Lieutenant Governor. And, as a board member of Young Leaders' Academy, I still see the fruit of his labor today. He was a wonderful husband, father, family man, and friend. Kirt will be missed by so many. May his legacy live on. Thank God for Kirt Bennett.

Kimberly LaMotte

May 7, 2010

Denise and Family, May GOD comfort you, your children and your mother-in-law at this time of grief and and sorrow. I am shocked and deeply saddened to learn of Kirt's death(42 is just so young). I know your family from coming through my line at Albertsons. I am really going to miss seeing Kirt and the children talking in frech and spanish, and him displining them without ever raising his voice. He had such a way with those kids(unbelievable). He was a very good father, and to you he was your soulmate, and a wonderful son to his mother. I hope it is a comfort for you to know how much Kirt was loved and admired by those throughout the community. So pleased lean on our Lord and Savior JESUS CHRIST to help you through this most difficult time and know you all are loved and cherished.

Vivian White

May 7, 2010

To the Bennett family, my prayers and thoughts are with you. I met Kirt at LSU. May God continue to keep his loving arms around all of you.
Judy Harrison Levy (Baton Rouge, La.)

May 7, 2010

"My heart goes out to the bennett family with me going to school with john, christiana, and benjamin i know they are really hurt."

Donald Dunbar

May 7, 2010

With deep sympathy we send our support and prayers to the family and friends of our fallen Eleanor McMain Alumni. Memories are forever and it is our hope that everyone would cherish the inspirations and undertakings that Kirt sustained to impact the lives of those around him. Only time will heal the hurt but may GOD comfort your family in your present sorrow.

Lenard Tillery

May 7, 2010

What a tremendous loss of leadership not only in Baton Rouge but for the state of Louisiana. Deepest sympathy to the Bennett family. Mary Beth Chevalier

Mary Beth Chevalier

May 7, 2010

Denise my heart and prayers are with you and your entire family. I know I don't have the capacity to fully express my sorrow at the loss of your dear Kirt, but always know that I am here lifting you up in prayer and believing that our Father will give you and your children comfort during this time and hold you ever so close in His protective arms. Love to you and family.

~Johnnie Lyons-Day

May 7, 2010

May your hearts soon be filled with wonderful memories of joyful times together as you celebrate a life well lived.

Jean Allen

May 7, 2010

Our thougts and prayers are with you and your family during this time. May God Bless and Keep You.

Sincerely.

Joseph Ratliff II - 2nd Grade Spanish and Family

LaKisha Tolliver

May 7, 2010

Kirt and I attended LSU during the same time frame. He was truly a great person, and will be deeply missed. My condolences to the family.

Michael Buckhannon

May 7, 2010

Denise,
Words cannot express how deeply saddened we are for you and your family. My daughter, Melissa, and I just met you at the Port crawfish boil and then again dining in Dville. We, too, just lost our husband and father. Kirt was so very supportive to my daughter during her transition. We will never forget him. Thoughts and prayers are with you and your family.

Joni Folse

May 7, 2010

The entire Bennett family,
Thank you for sharing Kirt with all of us. He will never be forgotten. May he rest in eternal peace.
Rene'e H. LaCour

Rene'e LaCour

May 7, 2010

My prayers and condolences to the Bennett family.

Amber Henderson

May 7, 2010

Denice my prayers goes out to you and your family. It is very hard right now but trust me in time it will get better.I have gone that road but god made a way and that strong family you have will help see you through this.Cry if you have to but still pray and every thing will heal in its own way.The few times I met you was very special to me just take care of your precious kids.Be there for one another because god the almighty will always be there for you.Take care and you will be well taken care. Love to you and your family Carolyn Gallo

Carolyn Gallo

May 7, 2010

My thoughts and prayers are with you in your time of grief. May your memories bring you comfort.

Annie Phillips, Randall

May 7, 2010

Wishing you comfort and peace that surpasses understanding. May God bless and keep you.

Sincerely,

The Bethel Family
Jacksonville, FL

May 7, 2010

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