Bennett
UNDATED — Mrs. Leslie Matich Bennett, 77, passed away peacefully in her sleep early Wednesday morning, March 3, 2026, leaving a tremendous void in the lives of those who loved her.
She was a remarkable woman and the strongest person her family knew. Sweet, kind, and deeply faithful, she emb odied grace and compassion in her daily life. Her greatest lesson was teaching those around her to love unconditionally, and her family hopes to carry forward even a small part of her strength.
Mrs. Bennett was born November 5, 1948, in Waycross to the late Walter “Skeets” M. Matich, Sr. and Colleen Aspinwall Matich. She was a member of the Ware County High School Class of 1956, and later attended St. Joseph’s Nursing School in Atlanta. On July 19, 1967, she married the love of her life, the late William Hamilton “Bill” Bennett.
Mrs. Bennett worked as an operator with Southern Bell from 1967 until the office closed in 1984. Following that time, she attended Okefenokee Technical College and Waycross College, where she earned an Associate Degree in drafting. She was a devoted member of St. Joseph Catholic Church.
She was a woman of many talents and interests. A gifted seamstress, gardener, and decorator, Mrs. Bennett especially loved working in her flower gardens. She was a member of the Okefenokee Garden Club and the National Rose Society, where she grew awardwinning roses and served as a judge in numerous competitions.
Throughout her life, Mrs. Bennett faced many serious health challenges, often overcoming situations when doctors had little hope. She fought courageously to live and remained strong through it all. Only four months after the passing of her beloved husband, Bill, God called her home. Her family finds comfort in knowing she is now reunited with the love of her life.
Mrs. Bennett will be deeply missed and forever cherished in the hearts of those who knew and loved her. Though her family grieves her loss, they take comfort in knowing she is watching over them and guiding them still.
She is survived by her daughter, Lisa Strickland (Eric) of Richmond Hill, Ga.; four grandchildren, Morgan Strickland, Brittany Strickland, Sydney Strickland, and Jake Strickland; one brother, Walt Matich (Zeda) of Blackshear; and nieces and nephews, Mary Ann Jordan (the late Jason), Elizabeth “Liz” Yarbrough (Jason), David Bennett (Aimee), Debbie Greene, Kathy Layden (Stan), Karen Bennett; and several great nieces and nephews.
A memorial service was held March 10 at First Baptist Church in Waycross. Burial followed in Greenlawn Cemetery.
In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions can be made to First Baptist Church Waycross or St. Anne’s Catholic Church in Richmond Hill.
Expressions of sympathy may be expressed by posting to her tribute wall at www.musicfuneralhome. com.
Music Funeral Home was in charge of arrangements.
