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Barbara J Bennett

July 17, 1927 - August 11, 2023

Barbara “Jody” Bennett, 96, passed away August 11, 2023 at Mill Pond Senior Living in Ankeny, Iowa.

Visitation will be held from 9:00 to 10:30 a.m. on Wednesday, August 16, 2023, at Memorial Services of Iowa (4208 N. Ankeny Blvd). A funeral service will follow at 10:30 a.m., also at the funeral home. A graveside service will be held at 2:30 p.m. at Memorial Lawn Cemetery in Ottumwa.

Barbara “Jody” was born July 17, 1927 in Dallas Center, Iowa, to Lewis and Lucille Hood. She quit high school early to go to work, but later in life completed her GED. At 17 years old, she went to work at an ammunition factory in Waterloo, Iowa, during World War II, where they made bullets and ammunition for the war. She worked there for two years. Then, went to work at the candy counter of a local dime store, also in Waterloo, for a year. Finally, she was hired at John Deere and worked a total of 25 years at the Waterloo and Ottumwa plants.

When she moved to Ottumwa, Iowa for work, she met the love of her life, Richard “Rick” Bennett, on a blind date. Rick and Barbara were married April 7, 1956. They were blessed with two daughters.

Over her lifetime, she participated in any activities. She was on a bowling league, loved to bake, sew and do craftwork. The last few years, she enjoyed playing cards with the gals at Mill Pond Independent Living, but her favorite thing to do was spending time with her grandchildren and great-grandchildren. Her family was the most precious thing in her life.

Barbara is survived by her daughter, Tammi (Wayne) Christ; grandchildren, Amy (Aaron) Wise, Rachel Christ, and Aaron Christ; great-grandchildren, Finley and River Wise; and many extended family and friends. She is preceded in death by her parents, Lewis and Lucille; husband, Rick; daughter, Cindi; and siblings, Marjorie and Lewy.

The family wishes to thank the staff at Mill Pond Senior Living and caregivers with St. Croix Hospice for the wonderful care for Barbara during her final days.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be directed to St. Croix Hospice, 1555 SE Delaware Ave, Suite Q, Ankeny, IA 50021.