Claudette Hesse Bennett

October 3, 1936 - September 9, 2020

Claudette Hesse Bennett, 83, of Clemson, SC, passed away Wednesday, September 9, 2020 after a stroke. She was born on October 3, 1936 in Palmer, Alaska and was preceded in death by parents Claude and Helen Hesse. She was married for 58 years to John Bennett, who died 4 days before her. She is survived by daughters Barbara Bennett and Kelli (Dave) Suggs and brothers Jim (Kappy) Hesse, Jerry (Mary) Hesse, and Lou (Judy) Hesse and many loving nieces, nephews, and friends. From an early age Claudette cared deeply for children and found her life's calling as a first-grade teacher. She received her Bachelor’s degree from the University of Minnesota and later her Master’s degree from Clemson University. She taught first grade at Margaret Morrison Elementary from 1976 - 1997 and touched the lives of many area students with her keen wit and caring approach to learning. She was a talented cook and baker and was renowned for cooking many different kinds of cookies to give as Christmas gifts. She served many years as a Girl Scout troop leader, Sunday School and vacation Bible School teacher and was active in the Fort Hill Presbyterian Church where she was a Presbyterian Women Honorary Life Member. A small service for both Claudette and husband John is planned in Clemson on September 11, 2020 with interment in Tennessee later this year. Memorials may be made to Thornwell Home for Children or Alzheimer’s Association.