Mark Steven Bennett born to Donald Lowell Bennett and Sharla “Joann” Bennett on February 3, 1954 in Metropolis, Illinois, passed away unexpectedly at home on August 18, 2026. He was a devoted son to his late parents and brother to Frank K. Bennett. He took pride in being a dedicated father to his daughter, Dr. Andrea C. Bennett of Denver, Colorado, and son, Steven Bennett of Lexington, Kentucky. His commitment as a father was demonstrated by his heavy involvement in their academics and extracurriculars, including coaching multiple of their childhood sports’ teams, curating memorable family vacations, and sharing his many hobbies with them.

A proud graduate of Massac County High School, Mark earned a Bachelor's Degree in Education from Murray State University and further educational certifications from Western Kentucky University. Mark loved learning from an early age. He memorized an entire encyclopedia set at a young age and spent much of his life sharing that knowledge with others. His dedication to education was evident throughout his 30+ year career in teaching chemistry, biology, and in various administrative roles with Logan County Schools, where he impacted countless students and colleagues. Mark’s passion for nature and music inspired those around. He was in gospel band, The Revelations, as a young man. As an adult, his piano skills regularly brightened his home and community events. Mark previously served as president of the Kentucky Ornithological Society and participated in yearly assessments of migratory species.

A memorial service will be held at Brady Cemetery in Akin, IL on Wednesday, August 26th at 1:00 PM. Family and friends are asked to meet at the cemetery.