Lola Ann Bennich

Born on August 13, 1956, in Ventnor, New Jersey, and raised in Huntsville, Alabama, Lola lived with her heart wide open. For 40 years, she walked hand in hand with her soulmate, Gary, the man she adored and the partner who matched her strength, humor, and spirit. Their love was the kind that shaped families, steadied storms, and inspired everyone who witnessed it.

Lola's professional life was marked by dedication and versatility. With a career spanning 35 years, she excelled as a computer programmer, conversion specialist, customer support manager, and independent consultant.

Lola’s life was an act of service. She welcomed 56 newborn foster babies into her arms, loving each one with a mother’s tenderness and cheering for them long after they left her home. Her greatest joy, though, was being “Nana.” She created magic for her grandchildren— especially at Christmas, when she became “Nana Clause,” filling the season with wonder, warmth, and the kind of generosity only she could give.

She delighted in gardening, traveling, shopping, and crafting unforgettable moments for her family. Lola lived fiercely, loved deeply, and gave endlessly. Her legacy is one of devotion—to Gary, to her children, to her grandchildren, and to every life she touched.

Lola is survived by her beloved husband, Gary Bennich; her children, Brian (Cynthia) Stilwell and Steve (Carla) Stilwell; her siblings, Mark (Janet), Ricky, and Lara (Fred); her grandchildren, Bradley, Jonathan, Matthew, Bryson, Lola Kay, Cebastian, and Joseph; and her great grandchildren, James Owen, Myles, Emma Grace, and Javi Malik. She also leaves behind treasured friends Vonna Hayes, TJ, Kesha, Lara, and Oye Oduyela.

She is preceded in death by her parents, Richard and Phyllis Baker, and her grandson, Issac Stilwell.

A celebration of her life will be held at a later date.