Hugh James Bennett, age 84, of Tucson, Arizona, passed peacefully into the arms of his Lord and Savior Jesus Christ on April 12, 2026. Born on September 5, 1941, in Berkeley, California, Hugh lived a life defined by service, devotion, and a deep love for people.

A proud U.S. Air Force veteran, Hugh served his country with honor, retiring as a Master Sergeant after a distinguished career that included service during the Vietnam War. His Air Force journey carried him across the nation and around the world, California to Texas, Arizona, Florida, Vietnam, Alaska, back to California, Nebraska, and ultimately back to Tucson, Arizona, all while raising a family he cherished with his whole heart. Hugh’s love for his country and family was unwavering, and his heart was the fullest when he was caring for and surrounded by the people, he held dear.

Hugh was a man of strong faith who loved Jesus Christ and lived that love through kindness, generosity, and a willingness to help anyone in need. He found joy in simple pleasures: fishing, trains, firearms, good conversation, and the company of family and friends. His warm spirit and steady presence made him someone people naturally gravitated toward, a man who listened, who cared, and who showed up.

He is preceded in death by his beloved wife Ginna Bennett, his mother Klara Flautz Garrett, his father Hugh C. Bennett, his brother Gregory Bennett, his sister Susan Schmidt, and his son Gregory J. Bennett

Hugh is survived by his children: Alana K. Oaxaca (Robert) of Tucson AZ, Hugh “Skip” J. Bennett II (Denise) of Arizona City, AZ, Veronica R. Teer (Randy) of Graham, NC and Rebecca “Becky” J. Linko (Chris) of Marana, AZ

He is also survived by his sisters Marla Walker (Ken) of Anderson, SC, and Margo Bennett of Sacramento, CA.

Hugh leaves behind a large and loving family of grandchildren: Christopher & Tassie Sturtz, James Sturtz, Andrea Acosta, Thomas (Tommy) & Rebekah Bennett, Matthew Dickey, Yvette Dickey, Jonathan Ervi, Kjirsten & Josh Selvig, Bethany Teer, Blake Teer, Brooke (Andrew) Yarrington, Connor and Stephanie (Steph) Linko, Jordyn Linko, and Ethan Bennett, as well as 16 great grandchildren.

Hugh’s legacy is one of faith, love, guidance and service. He will be remembered for his generosity, his humor, his strength, his talented woodworking, ceramics and mechanical skills, and the way he made every person feel valued. He loved to cook, build train towns and spend time with his family and friends. His family takes comfort in knowing he is now home with the Lord, reunited with those who went before him.

Hugh will be laid to rest with full military honor at Arizona Veteran’s Memorial Cemetery at Marana, 15950 North Luckett Road, in Marana, Arizona (85653). Service will be on Friday, August 14th at 11:30 a.m. His family welcomes all who knew and loved him to join in celebrating his life, service, and the profound impact he made on those around him.

In Lieu of Flowers please make any donations to the US Wounder Warriors Family Support: Home - Wounded Warriors Family Support