Roy Edward Bennett was born the youngest of ten children on November 25, 1942, in Presho, SD.  His parents were William (Slim) and Mildred (Nutt) Bennett.

Ed grew up on the ranch north of Wood in Mellette County.  He attended Wood Independent school for his elementary schooling and graduated from Wood High School in 1960.  During school Ed played basketball and football.

On July 26, 1961, Ed married the sheriff's daughter, Judy Hitchings.  They were blessed with three sons, Kevin, Darin and Troy.

Over the span of 81 plus years Ed wore many hats.  He was a business owner, UPS driver and raised cattle, hogs and chickens.His last and most prominent adventure was his hay hauling. Many miles were covered, lots of friends made and tons of hay was delivered from fields to homesteads.

Ed is survived by his loving wife of 63 years Judy; his sons, Darin (Michele) Bennett and Troy (Amber) Bennett of Las Vegas, Nevada. Three grandchildren, Brittany (George), Braden and Liam.  Brother, Jim (Marlene) of Gregory, South Dakota and sister Virginia Ensminger of Valentine, Nebraska. Also, a herd of nieces and nephews and a host of loyal friends.

He is preceded in death by his son, Kevin, parents Slim and Mildred, brothers, Bill, Paul, Bob, John, and sisters Kathy Engel, infant twins, June and Jane.  In-laws, Perry and Ester Hitchings, brother-in-law Jerry Hitchings and nephews and cousins.  A funeral service for Ed Bennett was held on Tuesday, Sept. 3, 2024, at 11:00 AM, at the Berean Church in Valentine.  A burial followed at the Evergreen Cemetery in Wood, SD.  Sandoz Chapel of the Pines in Valentine was in charge of service arrangements.