Vinita "Carol" Bennett

Vinita "Carol" Bennett, 85, of Rogers, Arkansas, passed away peacefully on Tuesday, June 2, 2026, at Circle of Life Hospice in Springdale. Born on March 19, 1941, in Riverside, California, Carol was the beloved daughter of Vinita Clarice and Artemis Eugene Wallis.

Carol lived a life filled with joy, laughter, and love for the people around her. She was an accomplished bowler who took great pride in the sport she enjoyed for many years. She loved spending time on the water boating with her husband, Gary, with whom she shared 35 wonderful years of marriage. One of her favorite daily routines was walking her beloved dog alongside neighbors and friends.

A devoted sports fan, Carol was especially passionate about the University of Tennessee. She could often be found cheering on Tennessee teams in any sport, and when Tennessee faced Arkansas, she happily rooted for both sides.

To know Carol was to love her. She was one of the kindest souls anyone could meet, known for her warm heart, infectious smile, and unforgettable laugh. Her sense of humor brightened every room she entered, and even during her courageous battle with cancer this past year, she continued to share joy, strength, and encouragement with those around her.

Carol was preceded in death by her beloved husband, Gary Bennett; her only child, Scott; her parents; her oldest sister, Mary Jo Wallis; and her brothers, Guy Wallis, Bentley Wallis, and Jimmy Wallis.

As the youngest of her family, Carol lovingly attended the farewells of each of her siblings throughout the years. Though none remained to attend hers, her family takes comfort in knowing they were waiting to welcome her home to heaven with open arms.

She leaves behind cherished memories with her niece, Tami Wallis Montgomery of Rogers and her family; her stepson, Glen Bennett of Springdale and his family; and her stepdaughter, Laura Jo Kane of Illinois and her family, and their siblings Lisa, Linda, Greg, and their families. She is also survived by her cousin Gary and his daughter Carla and family, with whom she became especially close after moving to Arkansas in early 2023. Carla remembers Carol's beautiful red hair, radiant smile, and contagious laughter, all of which will be deeply missed.

Carol's dear friend, Janice Bartholomew, was a constant source of companionship and support. The two spoke several times each day, sharing stories, laughter, and strength to face whatever the day might bring.

Also mourning her loss is her faithful companion, Missy, who rarely left Carol's side and brought her comfort every day. Missy is now being lovingly cared for by Glen, whom she has known and loved.

Carol's legacy is one of kindness, resilience, laughter, and unconditional love. Her smile touched countless lives, and her memory will continue to live on in the hearts of all who were blessed to know her.