Harlie Bennett, Jr.

Harlie V. Bennett Junior, age 88, passed away on November 5, 2020. Harlie was born on August 17, 1932, and was the son of Harlie and Myrtle Bennett. Harlie attended Galopolis High School. Following high school, Harlie enlisted in the Air Force and was stationed in Anchorage, Alaska. At the same time he was stationed at Warner Robins Air Force Base, he met Carolyn, the girl of his dreams and his wife of 56 years.
They relocated to Charleston, West Virginia, where their children Cindy and Vic, were born. Six years later, the family relocated to Pensacola Beach and never looked back. Harlie attended Morris Harvey, UWF, and Troy Universities.
Harlie and Carolyn were able to be their own bosses, opening Bennett’s Drive-In on Pensacola Beach. Harlie then received a degree in education, and a teacher was born. He taught at Blount Junior High School and later taught at Pine Forest High School when it first opened its doors, while also serving as the Voice of the Eagles during football season.
Following his retirement, he fulfilled a dream of going back to Anchorage and taking Carolyn with him. Harlie had a heart of gold and was a gentleman in every sense of the word. He and Carolyn found their church family at Gulf Breeze Presbyterian Church and were active members in the choir for almost 50 years.
Harlie was preceded in death by his wife, Carolyn, his parents, and sister Patty. He is survived by his daughter, Cindy Bennett, son, Vic Bennett (Kirsten), grandchildren, Rachael Wood, Josh Wood, Ana Bennett, Niels Bennett, and two great-grandchildren, Dylan Wood and Skyler Dellisanti. Harlie was a much-loved dad and Poppa.
The family is asking everyone to wear their mask, wash their hands, and social distance. The family doesn't want another family to lose precious time with their loved ones.

A memorial service and celebration of Harlie’s life will be held at Roselawn Funeral Home Gulf Breeze in the Committal area outside on Saturday, November 21, 2020, at 2:00 p.m. Face Protection, and Social Distancing Required. CDC guidelines will be enforced.  In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to Emerald Coast Hospice or a charity of your choice.