Richard "Rick" Hanson Bennett

Richard Hanson Bennett (Rick) entered Heaven on Monday, November 11, 2024. Rick courageously and bravely faced many physical handicaps and challenges throughout his life with determination and a strong faith. 

Born June 12, 1950, in Athens, GA, he was one of six children of Curtis and Adeline Bennett. He attended public schools in Athens and graduated at the top of his class at Athens Technical College with a degree in mechanical engineering. Always looking for ways to improve his quality of life, Rick invented many electrical implements for use on his wheelchair, in his van, and in his home. 

Rick worked alongside his Dad and brothers, Buddy and Don, in the family business, Athens Plumbing and Well Supply, for many years until he opened his own business in 1990. Make-a-Way was specifically designed to meet the needs of others with similar challenges as Rick’s own. As his nephew Curt joined him in the business, it later evolved into Custom Mobility. Rick retired in 2010. 

In 1981 Rick married the love of his life, Susan Batten, from Blackshear, GA. Theirs is an amazing love story spanning 43 years of loving, caregiving and unwavering devotion. He and Susan always enjoyed time together traveling or watching the Bulldawgs play on a Saturday afternoon. 

Rick served faithfully in his church, Prince Avenue Baptist Church, for 65 years as a deacon and choir member, where he sang in all the performances of the Singing Tree services for 30 years. 

He is predeceased by his parents; his brother, Buddy (Pat), his sisters-in-law, Pat M. Bennett and Kay S. Bennett; and his nieces, Merry Katherine Prince and Dee Dee W. Bennett. 

Rick’s survivors include his wife, Susan B. Bennett; brother, Don Bennett (Libby); sisters, Dianne Bahnsen (Lynn), Lyn Bennett, Angie Prince (Tommy); and many nieces and nephews whom he adored. 

Friends and family will gather at Lord and Stephens, WEST, on Wednesday, November 13, 2024, from 6:00 until 8:30pm for visitation. Rick’s service will be held at 1:00pm at Prince Avenue Baptist Church Worship Center in Bogart on Thursday, November 14, 2024. Burial will follow the service at Evergreen Memorial Park. 

Rick’s life exemplified one of his favorite scriptures: “For I know the plans I have for you, declares the Lord, plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future: (Jer. 29:11) 

Lord and Stephens Funeral Home, WEST, is in charge of arrangements. www.lordandstephens.com