Geraldine “Gerry” Carmen Thompson Bennett was born in Harrisburg, Pennsylvania to the union of the late Robert J. Thompson and the late Sarah E. Speaks Thompson.
Geraldine was educated in the Harrisburg School District, graduating from the former John Harris Senior High School in 1953. During her school years, she was active in basketball and L.P.K. Sorority, for which she served as treasurer.
Geraldine began working for the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania in The Department of Education in1956 as a Data Analyst. She held several positions and was once Employee of the Year. She was a dedicated employee with the division of the Public-School Employee’s Retirement System until her retirement in 1991, completing 41 1/2 years of service. In her spare time, she loved to bowl and was a part of several bowling leagues.
She accepted Jesus Christ as her personal savior at the age of twelve and was a member of St. Paul Missionary Baptist Church. In her mid-twenties Greater Zion Missionary Baptist Church became her church home.
On April 23,1995, Geraldine and Roosevelt “Buck” Bennett were united in holy matrimony. This is when she became a member of Mount Zion Missionary Baptist Church. Geraldine was active with Mt. Zion serving on several ministries. She held positions as President of the Deaconess Ministry, President and Treasurer of the Social Ministry, member of the Flower Club and she along with Ms. Sammie Childs delivered for Meals on Wheels.
Geraldine, enjoyed traveling, going to the casino and watching tennis on television. Geraldine loved her family and missed her sister Mary Louise Thompson Leftwich dearly.
On Thursday, December 7, 2023, she transitioned from this earthly life into eternal life at The Houston Methodist Hospital in Houston, Texas. Geraldine was preceded in death by her parents, her husband, her brothers and sister. Cherishing their memories of Geraldine are her daughter, Linda Penn White (Mathew); stepdaughters, DeEtta and Candace “Candy” Bennett; grandchildren, Lindsey White and Brian White (Mallory); niece, Debra “Debbie” Manning; great nephew, Perry Thompson; great nieces, Erika Manning and Kimberly “Kim” Manning-Early (Chris); great great nephew, Reginald “Reggie”; sisters-in-law, Patricia “Patsy” Webster and Ina DunMoodie; Caretaker, Sulma Yesenia Chavez Cuadra and host of cousins, friends and neighbors.
Geraldine's life will be celebrated at 11:00 a.m. on Thursday, December 28, 2023 in the Sanctuary of her church, Mt. Zion Missionary Baptist Church, 20 Locust Street, Steelton with viewing and visitation from 10:00 a.m. until 11:00 a.m. and burial in Blue Ridge Memorial Gardens.
Sandra Anderson sent Peace & Serenity Dishgarden for Geraldine Bennett - December 19, 2023
Sending prayers Craig and Sandra Anderson
Regina Smith sent Red and White Handled Basket for Geraldine Bennett - December 18, 2023
Dearest Linda, Mat, Lindsey and Brian, Your Chicago friend/family mourns with you the loss of your dear Mom and Grandmother Geraldine Bennett. Love, Regina Smith, Mary Smith and Family.
Pamela Goodwin sent Red and White Floor Basket for Geraldine Bennett - December 18, 2023
My thoughts and prayers are with you. Sincerely, Pam G.
Missy Stanley Rorrer planted 5 trees in memory of Geraldine Bennett . - December 27, 2023
Madalyn Nelson planted 10 trees in memory of Geraldine Bennett . - December 19, 2023
Erica L Boseman planted 5 trees in memory of Geraldine Bennett . - December 18, 2023
Ms Gerry will certainly be missed by me. I met her when I joined Mt. Zion and she had such a sweet and beautiful spirit . Rest in heaven Ms. Gerry.
Linda, my friend, my Soror; What a Blessing you were to your mom. Our first meeting I knew she was special and very much loved. Your Sorors are just a phone call away and we all there with you in Spirit.
Linda, I am so sorry for your loss. Your mother was a beautiful woman. She will always be alive in your heart. Mattie Sharp
Linda,although I met Geraldine late in life, she held a place in my heart. Sag to Sag. I will miss her. I am truly sad for your loss, just know I am here if and when you need me. De Jones and family - Atascocita, Texas
Linda so sorry to hear of your loss of your mother. Keeping you and all your family in my thoughts and prayers.
Linda May God be with you and your family during this tough time!!!
Linda, I'm going to miss our frequent check-ins on our fave Saggitarius Mom in Houston! I like seeing how you kept Mom Geraldine engaged with her excursions and activities to look forward to! I remember how she enjoy receiving Garretts Chicago Mix popcorn and her fingers getting orange from the cheese! Luv you friend, Regina
Linda...Just want you to know that God is by your side...You are a Very Sweet Person and the Love you give to others..came from your mother..that means She was Love...Love You❤️❤️Kaye I am Here if You Need Me
Linda, I am sorry to hear of the loss of your mother. I am aware that it leaves a huge hole in the place she occupied in your heart. Remember all of the joys and love she shared with you and your family to get you through the sad times. May God keep and guide you through these times.
Tilda, Darrel & Devin Gaines
Linda, you have my deepest sympathy for the loss of your mother.
It was an honor to have known Mrs. Bennett. Linda, my prayers to you and the family on your loss.
Our staff will continue to keep your family in our prayers. We thank you for allowing us to serve your family.