James E. Bennett

Olean, NY- James Elias Bennett, passed away peacefully while surrounded by loved ones on Tuesday (July 19, 2022), at his home, Grace Ridge, on West Windfall Road, the place he loved most in the world.

Born November 28, 1971,in Olean, he was the son of Lloyd John and Anne (Harris) Bennett.

Jim was a graduate of Olean High School class of 1989. He was hired by the Olean Fire Department in 1991 at the age of 19.  While earning a meteoric rise to Captain, he spent the entirety of his 30+ year career dedicated to helping people and improving the OFD.  After 9-11, he went to Ground Zero representing the department to help with the clean-up.  He also played a part with other firefighters in the History Channel’s movie “Fire on the Mountain”.  He treasured his job.

Jim also loved; deer hunting, playing softball, working around his property, cooking and spending time with the love of his life, Laurie Watson, particularly hitting estate sales and he excelled at each of them.  His happiest years were his last ones.  We just wish there had been more.

Jim is survived by; his fiancée Laurie; his son and co-chef Christian Elias; his parents Lloyd and Anne Bennett of St. Johns FL; one brother, Lloyd C. (Suzanne) Bennett of Raleigh, N.C; one sister, Amy E. (Paul) Loughran of St. Johns, FL; three nephews, Jay (Alecia) Bennett, Shaun Bennett, and Andrew Loughran; niece Molly Loughran; great-nieces Natalie and Ellie Bennett; many dear friends including, Chris Lyaski and his four-legged friend Copper.

Friends will be received at the Guenther Funeral Home, Inc., 1303 E. State Street, Olean on Sunday from 2-4pm and 7-9pm.  Funeral services will be held on Monday (July 25, 2022) at 10am at the funeral home.  Burial will follow in Chestnut Hill Cemetery, Portville.

Flowers are gratefully declined. Please consider making donations to the Cattaraugus County SPCA, 2944 Route 16, Olean or to the Chestnut Hill Cemetery Endowment Fund, PO Box 517, Portville, NY 14770.

Online condolences can be expressed at www.guentherfh.com.