James Michael Bennett “Mike” of Richmond, VA passed away on March 26, 2026 after fighting a long battle with cancer while surrounded by his family and friends. Mike graduated from New Kent High School in 1972. He began his career as a mechanic at Royal Oldsmobile before finding his place at UPS. While working at Royal Oldsmobile, he taught a basic auto care class at J. Sergeant Reynolds. Mike worked at UPS for many years before finally retiring in 2009. Mike always found joy in serving his community and neighbors.  He was a member of the New Kent Volunteer Fire Department for twenty years ending his career as Assistant Chief of Company One and devoted much of his spare time coaching his daughter and grandson’s various sports teams. Mike’s last years were spent with family and his numerous friends at Greys Point Campground in Topping, Va.

Mike was preceded in death by his father: James Carroll Bennett; mother: Pernie Artell Bennett; and sister: Carol Andrews (Gene).

Mike is survived by his devoted wife Linda Bennett. Daughter: Christa Nichols (Daniel); Grandson Trez; Stepchildren: Chad Mason (Tracy), Melinda Winn, and Jesse Winn (Amanda); Grandchildren: Alyssa, Taylor, Karsyn, Brady, Kalab, Rylan, Jace, and Abel; and Great-granddaughter Nova; Sister: Gayle Jeter; Nephew and Nieces: Bruce Grosvenor (Kasi), Terri Norman, Becky Williams (Daniel), and many extended family members that he loved.  

Details for a Celebration of Life will be announced at a later date.