Carla Bennett Brown's Obituary
The world lost an extraordinary soul on Thursday, June 4th, 2026, as Carla Bennett Brown departed from this earth- surrounded by her family and friends.
Carla is proceeded in death by her mother, Joan Hughes, and her father, Carl McDonnie.
Carla leaves behind her daughter and daughter-in-law, Savannah and Amanda Bennett, her pride and joy: granddaughter, Maddison Delawder, and her very best friend of over 60 years, Xana Shelton and her partner, Jessie Bradley. Over the years, Carla had hundreds of “adopted children and grandchildren,” through her daughter and granddaughter’s friend groups. To many she was known as “Momma Bennett,” or “Gammy.” A special thanks to her “extended family,” the Sanctuary of the Ohio Valley staff, who went above and beyond in providing excellent care to her.
Carla was a St. Augustine native living in Ironton, Ohio, where she planted her roots and settled (mostly) down. Carla was humorous, quick-witted, and compassionate. Carla cared deeply for her family and friends. She was a lover of the finer things in life, such as Salem Slim Light 100’s, ice cold Diet Pepsi, and chocolate. She loved the outdoors, but more specifically- Florida’s sandy beaches and sunny weather. Carla loved listening to the oldies while singing and dancing along. Some of her favorites were: Janis Joplin, the Mama’s and the Papa’s, Grateful Dead, and more recently- Billy Strings.
For those who knew Carla, it would be no surprise to know that she absolutely despised funerals and anything similar. Per her wishes, there will be no official services. A small gathering for a celebration of life will be scheduled at a later time.
Carla was indefinitely a spitfire of a soul- wild and free. Often unpredictable and never imitated or duplicated. She will forever be missed, and forever remembered.
“You who choose to lead, must follow
But if you fall, you fall alone
If you should stand, then who's to guide you?
If I knew the way, I would take you home”
from the song “Ripple,” by Grateful Dead
What’s your fondest memory of Carla?
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Describe a day with Carla you’ll never forget.
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