Gary S. Bennett, Sr.

Gary S. Bennett, Sr., 70, of Sedalia, passed away Wednesday, February 25, 2026.

He was born April 9, 1955 in Warwick, Rhode Island, the son of the late Thomas and Margaret “Peg” (Fagan) Bennett.

Gary grew up in Warwick and graduated from Toll Gate High School. He later married Kathleen Gardiner, and they had three children: Jessica, Gary Jr., and Kimberly.

He began his career as a submarine rigger with Electric Boat. After moving his family to Missouri, he worked for Gardner-Denver as an assembler and troubleshooter until his retirement. On weekends, he also worked as a push truck driver at Central Missouri Speedway in Warrensburg and Missouri State Fair Speedway in Sedalia.

Gary enjoyed fishing, camping, and spending time with family and friends. He liked playing Cribbage, Uno, Farkle, and card games, and he especially valued the time spent around the table together. He was proud that he read to his children every night when they were young, something they will always remember.

Survivors include three children, Jessica S. Bennett and Gary S. Bennett, Jr. (Reita), both of Sedalia, and Kimberly A. Bennett of O’Fallon, Illinois; two siblings, Patricia “Penny” Salyer of Higginsville and William “Bill” Bennett of New Bedford, Massachusetts; and three grandchildren, Chloe, Jacob, and Cordelia.

In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by a brother, James Bennett.

A Celebration of Gary’s Life will be noon to 2:00 pm, Saturday, March 21, 2026 at the Heckart Family Center, 911 S Ohio Ave, Sedalia, MO.

Memorial contributions are suggested to Campaign for Tobacco-Free Kids.