William (Bill) Clifford Bennett, age 87, passed away October 20, 2016. He was the son of the late Walter Martin and Hattie Hughes Bennett. He was predeceased by his brother, Arthur Bennett. Survivors include his wife of 63 years, Barbara Davis Bennett, and a nephew, David Olson of Alaska.
Born in Newland, NC, he came to Mars Hill as a young boy and resided there until his death. He attended Mars Hill College (now University) and graduated from Western Carolina College (now University) in 1953.
He began his teaching and coaching career at Mars Hill High School, where he had lettered in basketball, football and baseball. He taught and coached in Asheville City Schools retiring from Asheville High School in 1991, where he was Head Basketball Coach for a few years.
From a small boy, his passion for sports never faltered. In summer, he shared his love of sports with young boys, coaching Little League and Babe Ruth League. He served as a counselor at Camp Sequoyah in summers while in college. After retirement, he enjoyed gardening, landscaping his yard and growing hybrid roses.
A funeral service will be held 3:00pm Sunday, October 23, 2016 at Mars Hill Baptist Church. The family will receive friends following the service. Burial will follow visitation in Mars Hill Baptist Church Cemetery.
Online condolences may be sent to the family at www.blueridgefuneralservice.org