Longtime Marion Cultural Arts Director Mike Bennett dies at 82
FOX23 News at 9 p.m
MARION, Ill., (KBSI) — Mike Bennett, 82, of Marion, died Tuesday, May 5, 2026, at the Marion VA Medical Center, with his wife by his side.
Bennett was born Oct. 26, 1943, in Herrin to Audra and Gertrude Maxedon Bennett.
He served in the U.S. Army during the Vietnam War and was honorably discharged.
Bennett married Cheryl Legada Ciudad on April 14, 2014, in Chicago.
He spent more than 40 years as cultural arts director at the Marion Cultural and Civic Center and was widely recognized for his contributions to the arts in Southern Illinois. Officials at the center said Bennett was instrumental in shaping the facility and its programming, including helping lead fundraising, design and construction efforts following a fire that destroyed the original building.
An enthusiast of film and live entertainment, Bennett began his career as a projectionist and technician, specializing in film projectors and related systems. The center’s projection booth was later dedicated in his honor.
Bennett was a member of the Elks Club and Heartland Christian Church, where he volunteered for many years.
Survivors include his wife, Cheryl Bennett of Marion; nieces Valerie Nolen, Cindy Blim and Diana Bennett; a grandnephew; and other relatives and friends.
He was preceded in death by his parents; brothers Bobbie, Willard and Dale Bennett; sister Wanda Nolen; and a nephew.
Visitation will be held from 10 a.m. to noon Saturday, May 9, at Heartland Christian Church. Funeral services will follow at noon, with burial at Mulkeytown Cemetery. Military honors will be provided by local American Legion and U.S. Army honors detail.
Memorial contributions may be made to hospice care or Heartland Christian Church.
