Paul Andrew Bennett
September 27, 1940 ~ June 5, 2025
Paul Andrew Bennett, age 84, a resident of New Port Richey, Florida and of Philippi, WV, passed away Thursday, June 5, 2025, at Morton Plant North Bay Hospital in New Port Richey after a period of declining health. Paul was born on September 27, 1940, in Newburg, a son of James A. and Ethel F. (Shipp) Bennett. Paul was united in marriage on June 15, 1963, to the love of his life Alma Jean (Muncy) Bennett.
Paul served on active duty in the US Air Force from 1958-1962 and in the Air Force Reserve until 1964. He later attended West Virginia University where he earned a doctorate in education. Paul taught at Alderson-Broaddus College from 1975 until his retirement in 2000, where he chaired the Department of Health Sciences. Paul later served as CEO of Southern Highland Community Mental Health Center in Princeton, WV.
Paul was a member of the Bigelow Lodge # 52 AF & AM, and the Osiris Shriners, for which he often volunteered to transport children to the children’s hospitals in Erie, Louisville, and other locations. Paul was also a member of the Elks Chapter in Princeton, WV and Crim Memorial United Methodist Church in Philippi. Paul was widely known for his generosity, often helping those in need anonymously, never wanting any recognition for his contributions.
Paul is survived by his dear wife, Alma, his son, Jason, and a host of nieces, nephews, and extended family.
Paul was preceded in death by his parents James and Ethel Bennett; sisters Thelma Bennett, Ada Savino, Madeleine Bennett, Janis Geho, Judy Bohon; brothers Hubert, James “Bud”, Walter “Don”, Harold, and Emerson Bennett.
In lieu of flowers the family asks that memorial contributions be made in Paul’s memory to Shriners Children’s Processing Center, PO Box 947765 Atlanta, GA 30394.
Friends will be received at the Wright Funeral Home and on-site Crematory 220 N. Walnut St. Philippi on Monday June 9, from 5-8 pm. Tuesday friends will be received at the Crim Memorial United Methodist Church 78 Pike Street, from 12-1 pm. Funeral services will be conducted at 1 pm in the Church Sanctuary with Pastor Sam Haught officiating. Interment will follow in the Shay’s Chapel Cemetery in Newburg, with the Bigelow Lodge #52 AF & AM conducting graveside rites, also the US Air Force and American Legion Post #96 conducting military honors.
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A great guy. RIP Dr. Bennett.
I will always remember Dr Bennett for his caring and compassionate words of encouragement that changed the course of my career as a physician assistant. I was so very fortunate to have been able to see him recently on the campus of Alderson Broaddus. He seemed to be doing so well then. My condolences to his family.
I am saddened to hear of the news. He was a wonderful person. I still remember my interview for the PA program at AB. He did a great job for the program. He will be truly missed.
Please except our deepest sympathy on the loss of Paul. We always felt a closeness with Paul. We are truly in deep sorrow. ❤️ Terry and Grace Strauss
My most sincere condolences to Alma and the rest of Doc. Bennett’s family. He was one of the best instructors at AB College. May he rest in peace.
Uncle Paul you will be missed. I am eternally grateful for you love and example. You are a big reason why I am the man I am today. Love you.
My deepest sympathy and prayers for the family. Dr Bennett was a blessing to so many people. His leadership to the PA students helped evolve the new profession in West Virginia and beyond.
Alma and Jason, we are saddened for sure. Paul contributed so much to the community, academics, and our personal lives. We are grateful.
Alma,I’m so sorry to hear about Paul, Connie told me he was doing well at Judy’s funeral. I’m in Virginia so I won’t make it to the viewing
So sorry for your loss 🙏❤️
It’s with deep sorrow that I learned of the passing of Paul. He was a dear friend that I admired for his compassion for everyone. Alma I appreciate the times that you took us in your home and wish sincere condolences for your loss. My prayers are with your family he will be dearly missed. He touched so many lives.
Alma and family, may the Lord of our universe give you His peace and strength at this time. My wife Jo and I recall some really good times in years past. It is my honor to be a part of the Post 96 Honor Guard as we give our last respects to our Comrade, and our heart felt sympathy to family and friends. As we render the Taps at the graveside, remember these words associated with those 24 notes. “Day is done, Gone the Sun,, From the hills, From the lake, From the skies, All is well, Safely Rest, God is Nigh” Amen
Alma & Jason, we are so very sorry to hear of Paul’s passing. He was such a kind soul and always looking out for others. He was truly an inspiration in our community.
With love, Albert and Susan.
Alma & Jason, we are so very sorry to hear of Paul’s passing. He was such a kind soul and always looking out for others. He was truly an inspiration in our community.
With love, Albert and Susan.