OBITUARY

Myra M. Bennett

Myra M. Bennett was born on November 4, 1931, in New Orleans, Louisiana, to Ethel Cain and Gilbert Poree. Growing up during the Great Depression, she often reflected on how those challenging years strengthened her resilience and deepened the bonds of family that would guide her throughout her life. Myra was the second of three children, alongside her sister, Ethel Dawson, and brother, Aubry Sinclair.

Myra passed away peacefully in home hospice, with her daughter Lisa by her side, on March 9, 2026, at the age of 94 after a year-long battle with illness. She leaves behind a legacy of strength, determination, and enduring love for her family and community.

From an early age, Myra learned the value of hard work while helping at her step father Papa Sinclair’s gas station. Papa Sinclair, an entrepreneur from Costa Rica and one of the first Black pilots to build his own airplanes, instilled in her confidence, discipline, and a strong belief in the power of education.

Myra attended Corpus Christi, St. Mary’s Academy, and Xavier Prep. in New Orleans. Although she left school in the 11th grade to work full time, she later returned to complete her GED—an accomplishment she was very proud of.

Myra was married to M.C. Bennett. Her greatest pride was being the mother of five children: Kathie, Lisa, Eric, Myra, and Wanda.

Known for her sharp mind and strong work ethic, Myra worked in several industries, including the magazine and tile businesses. She later served as office manager for Brothers Electric and for Dr. Mayer Heiman in New Orleans. In addition, she was well known in her community for preparing taxes and sewing for family, friends, and community members.

Later in retirement, she volunteered with a prominent blind civil rights attorney, Mr. Wheeler, assisting with legal research and accompanying him to court—work she truly enjoyed. She often said the experience reminded her that she might have become an attorney herself.

Sewing remained one of Myra’s lifelong passions. She later partnered with her cousin Althea to build a successful sewing business, designing and creating wedding dresses.

In August 2005, Hurricane Katrina devastated New Orleans. After evacuating before the storm and losing her home when the levees failed, Myra relocated to Denver, Colorado, where she lived with her daughter Lisa and made Denver her home. There she found a spiritual family at For His Glory Christian Fellowship (FHG1 Ministries), where she was warmly embraced and deeply loved.

Myra will always be remembered for her strength, sharp mind, generosity, and unwavering love for those around her.

She was preceded in death by her parents, Ethel Cain and Gilbert Poree; her sister, Ethel Dawson; her brother, Aubry Sinclair; her nephew, Richard Dawson; her daughter-in-law, Erica Bennett; and a host of other beloved family members.

She is survived by her children, Kathie Givens, Lisa Givens, Eric Bennett, Myra Bennett, and Wanda Bennett; her cherished grandchildren, April Givens, Wayne Bennett, Erica Bennett, Dominique Bennett, Maaliq Joseph, and Micaah Joseph; and her great-grandchildren, Christopher Givens, DeVontá, Terrilyn, D'Liyah and J’Lani Bennett, Zelah Bennett, and Amaarah and Aaverie Joseph. She is also survived by her beloved niece, Melanie Dawson; nephews Billy, Gordon, and Steven Dawson and their families; and a host of loving friends who will forever cherish her memory.C

"Well done, good and faithful servant… Enter into the joy of your Lord.” — Matthew 25:23