Obituary

Graveside services for Merlin O. Bennett, 83, of Plain?view were at 11:30 a.m. today in Plainview Memorial Park. Memorial services were at 1:30 p.m. today at First United Methodist Church sanctuary with the Rev. Jerry Moore officiating. Arrangements were by Bartley Funeral Home. Visitation was Wednesday night at the funeral home. Mr. Bennett died Tuesday, Jan. 19, 2010, at his residence. He was born May 7, 1926, in Lorraine to James and Nola Bennett. He married Joyce Soden Wofford on Dec. 30, 1993, in Plainview. He served in the U.S. Army during WWII and received the Purple Heart and Bronze Star. He worked for the Soil Conservation Service for 10 years. He graduated from Texas Tech University with a bachelor's degree in engineering. He was an engineer for the Texas Highway Department, retiring as resident engineer. He was a member of First United Methodist Church, Pastor's Class and a past member of the Plainview Rotary Club. Survivors include his wife; children, Kristi and Peter Brown of Dallas, David Andrews of Mexico, Keila Stukey of Amarillo, Vicky and Kevin Knapp of Maryville, Tenn., and Deb Stewart of Carrollton; one brother and sister-in-law, Deryl and Barbara Bennett of Littlefield; and nine grandchildren. His first wife, Virginia Bennett; one daughter, Carolyn Andrews; and a brother, Wayland Bennett, are deceased. Memorial contributions may be made to First United Methodist Church. Online condolences may be made to [email protected].