Durrett Michael Bennett

Durrett Michael “Mike” Bennett, age 74, of Lexington, KY passed away on June 10, 2026 surrounded by his loving family. He was born on November 27, 1951 in Louisville, KY to Agnes Lucille Moore Bennett and Dr. Durratt Craddock Bennett.

Mike was a Vietnam-era veteran and a Licensed Clinical Social Worker who dedicated his life’s work to helping people be their best self. He was awarded the Commander’s Award for Civilian Service for his 17 years of service at the Bluegrass Army Depot.

Recently retired from his private counseling practice, he taught himself to play guitar, wrote funny songs (“Ginger Rose”) and entertained the grandchildren and wife Carol with his singing and lyrics.

He loved to travel the world, always looking for fun and adventure and exploring different cultures. Known for his infectious laugh and dedication to his family, friends and equality for all people. Mike loved the outdoors. He was an avid runner, bicyclist and skier in his younger years. Recently he enjoyed walking the UK Arboretum with his best dog pal, Ginger Rose.

Mike is survived by his wife of 35 years Carol Donnelly, his daughter Shelby Bennett (Jake) Hartlage and stepdaughters, Kelly Birmingham (Edward) VanHoose and Lynne Birmingham (David) Buchanan and seven wonderful grandchildren: Ella and Bennett Hartlage, Edmund and Ruby VanHoose and Osage, Raeya and Caruth Buchanan. He was preceded in death by his parents, Lucy and Ben, his sister Pam Hedges, his only son Benjamin “Ryan” Bennett and many lifelong friends.

A celebration of his life will be held in his honor on Saturday, June 20th at Clark Legacy Center-Brannon Crossing. The visitation will take place from 1:00 pm to 3:00 pm, followed by the celebration-of-life service at 3:00 p.m. Funeral home address: 601 E. Brannon Road, Nicholasville, Kentucky 40356.

In lieu of flowers, please send donations to the Wounded Warrior Project or the American Heart Association.

Links: Wounded Warrior Project or American Heart Association