Edna Lee Starks Bennett was born in St. Stephen, South Carolina on December 20, 1946, to the late Ernest Lee Starks and Lizzie Bell Gillard Starks.  After battling a prolonged illness, Edna departed this life Wednesday, February 7, 2024, in Summerville, South Carolina.

At an early age Edna attended Sumpter Chapel United Methodist church in St. Stephen, South Carolina where she was a youth usher, sang in the choir and was active in Sunday school. While in New York, Edna continued her spiritual journey by joining Varick Memorial AME Zion Church, Brooklyn, New York where she served as an Usher. Once Edna retired, she returned to her home in South Carolina, she continued to serve the Lord at New Light United Methodist Church, in St. Stephen, South Carolina. Edna enthusiastically participated in various church activities including serving as the kitchen chairperson.

Edna was educated in the Berkeley County South Carolina school system. Edna graduated from Russellville High School in 1966.

In 1968 Edna moved to Brooklyn, NY where she married William L. Bennett on February 20, 1968.  Edna and William were married for 56 years and their union was blessed with three sons.

Edna worked for the City of New York, Department of Environmental Protection for over 30 years.  As an Administrative Assistant, her organizational skills, attention to detail, and unwavering dedication made her an indispensable part of the team. Affectionately known to her colleagues as "Eddie", she is remembered for her tireless work ethic, and always going above and beyond to ensure the smooth functioning of the office.

Edna was a loving and caring individual. Her family was at the center of her world, and she took pride in creating a warm and nurturing home. Whether it was providing a listening ear, offering words of encouragement, the hard truth or simply sharing a comforting smile, she touched the lives of those around her with her genuine kindness.

In her leisure time, Edna enjoyed gardening, cooking, and shopping. Edna had a vibrant personality and zest for life. She believed in making the most of every moment and encouraged those around her to embrace life with joy and optimism.

Edna leaves to cherish her memories: A loving husband, William L. Bennett; three sons, Alex Starks (Joanne) of St. Stephen, SC, William V. Bennett (Karen) of St. Albans, NY, and Daryl T. Bennett of Jackson, TN; brothers, Morris Lloyd (Margie) Starks of Petersburg, VA and Melvin (Darlene) Bryant, St. Stephen, SC; sisters-in-law, Pearline (Anderson) Shipp of Brooklyn, NY, Christine Williams of Cambria Heights, NY, Teretha (Rupert John) Hanna of Valley Stream, NY, Henrietta Starks and Ruthie Mae Starks both of St. Stephen, SC; brothers-in-law, Alonzo (Phyllis) Bennett of Burlington, NC and Fred (Linda) Wilson of St. Stephen, SC; a very special nephew who was like her 4th son, Larenzo Stephen (Kimberly) Wilson of Moncks Corner, SC, 11 grandchildren, 3 great grandchildren, and host of nieces, nephews, cousins and friends.

The loss of Edna leaves a void that can never be filled, but her memory will live on through the countless lives she touched and the positive impact she made. May she rest in peace, surrounded by the love and gratitude of those who were fortunate enough to know her.

A Celebration of Life Service will be held Thursday, February 15, 2024, 11:00 a.m., at New Light United Methodist Church, 1037 Russellville Road, St. Stephen, SC. Burial will be in Sumpter Chapel Cemetery. Viewing will be held Wednesday, February 14, 2024, 5:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. at Gethers St. Stephen Chapel, 221 Church Road, St. Stephen, SC.

The service is being live streamed on the funeral home's Facebook page at: https://www.facebook.com/gethersfh