Myrna Joan Bennett

Myrna Joan Bennett, born on November 9, 1936, in Frostproof, Florida, passed away on March 16, 2026, at AdventHealth Lake Wales, under the care of Vitas Hospice. She was a devoted nurse who touched many lives through her career and kindness.

Myrna was a member of the Elks Club and found joy in many simple pleasures. She loved roses and sunflowers, enjoyed coffee and laughing with family and friends, and had a passion for painting, gardening, sewing, cooking, and decorating cakes.

She is survived by her daughters, Tracy Townson and her husband Michael of Murphy, North Carolina, Kelly A. Covey of Lake Wales; son, Noel Tolson of Lake Wales; sister, Patricia "Peggy" Carothers of Waverly; 13 grandchildren; 13 great-grandchildren; and 9 great-great-grandchildren.

Myrna was preceded in death by her husband, Col. Chesley Bennett; infant daughter, Cynthia Gail Tolson; sons Joel Tolson and Douglas Tolson; and grandson, Sergeant Robert Clint Tolson. Myrna was born to Albert and Mary Whitlock and was one of their children, along with five brothers and three sisters, all of whom have passed before her.

A visitation will be held from 12:00 p.m. until the funeral service at 1:00 p.m., Tuesday, March 31, 2026 at Marion Nelson Funeral Home in Lake Wales. Interment will follow at Lake Wales Memorial Gardens. Condolences can be sent to the family at www.marionnelsonfuneralhome.com.