Beatrice Mary Bennett

It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Beatrice Mary Latigay Bennett, who left us on March 27, 2026, at the age of 80. Born on December 13, 1945, in Hawaii, Beatrice found her home in Merryville, Louisiana, where she dedicated her life to her family as a loving homemaker.

Beatrice was a proud member of Green Oak Baptist Church and loved being involved in her church, although she preferred to keep her life fairly private. Those who knew her will remember her unique sense of humor that could catch anyone off guard, bringing laughter and joy to even the simplest moments. As a single mother, she raised three children always putting their needs first.

She is survived by her children, Paula Bennett of Hawaii; Debbie Benfield and James of Merryville, LA, Alton "AJ" Bennett, Jr. and Marisol of San Diego, CA; one sister, Sueko Burns; grandchildren, Kekoa Bennett, Josh and Rose Benfield, Sean Benfield, Pete Bennett; great grandchildren, Logan, Izabella and Damien and a host nieces, nephews, family and friends. Beatrice's favorite color was blue, which she wore proudly and often.

Beatrice was preceded in death by her parents, Ricardo and Kazuyo Latigay; siblings, Chiyoko Mark, Teruko Migita, Yaeko Goo, Seichi, Shoji, Takeshita, Yoshio, Katsushi and Akio Katayama and Richard Latigay.

A funeral service will be held in her honor at Green Oak Baptist Church on Friday, April 3, 2026, with a public viewing starting at 10:00 AM, leading into the service at 12:00 PM. Brother Jerry Hext and Mark Norwood will officiate the service. She will be laid to rest at Merryville Cemetery in Merryville, LA following the funeral. Pallbearers will be Josh Benfield, Sean Benfield, James Benfield and AJ Bennett. Honorary pallbearers will be Rose Benfield and Gregory Whittingon.

Beatrice's legacy of love and laughter will live on in the hearts of all who had the privilege to know her. She will be deeply missed.