Judy Ray Bennett

Judy Ray Bennett, 77, passed away peacefully on January 12, 2024, in Hampshire. She was born on October 21, 1946, in Maury County to the late Ray Pilkinton and Marie Gilliam Pilkinton.

Judy dedicated 40 years of her life to the Pepsi Bottling Co., where she not only excelled professionally but also formed lasting friendships and became a beloved member of the Pepsi family.

Judy loved to bowl, especially with her friends and family. She and her husband, John, shared a love for the outdoors, often going camping with their children. These trips were filled with laughter, adventure, and many fishing excursions, despite Judy's fear of water.

The Smoky Mountains held a special place in Judy's heart, as she cherished the family trips with her husband, daughter, and grandchildren. Her enthusiasm for races and admiration for the race car driver Sterling Marlin were well-known among her friends and family.

Above all, Judy's faith was central to her life. As a Christian, she found strength in reading her Bible, a practice that guided her through life and extended up until her final days.

In addition to her parents, Ray and Marie Pilkinton, she is preceded in death by her son, Patrick Bennett.

She leaves behind to cherish her memory, her beloved husband of 58 years, John Bennett; her daughter, Wanda Parker of Shelbyville, her sister, Betty Lofton; her grandchildren, Caitlyn Bennett, Alyssa Bennett, Gracie Parker, Zakkary Parker, Tyler Claxton; and great-grandchildren, Bentley Claxton, Ava Claxton, Layla Matney and Everly Cowley.

Funeral services were held on Sunday, January 14, 2024, in the chapel of McDonald Funeral Home in Hohenwald with Larry Helton and Ricky Glass officiating. Burial followed in Gordonsburg Cemetery.

McDonald Funeral Home is honored to be serving the Bennett family.