Richard "Rick" Douglas Bennett

Richard Douglas Bennett, 71, Beloved Husband, Father, Businessman, and Friend

ROCKY MOUNT – It is with deep sadness that we announce the passing of Richard Douglas Bennett (Rick), age 71.  He was surrounded by family and friends.

Born in Altoona, Pennsylvania, Rick lived a full and vibrant life marked by a dedication to his family, a passion for his work, and a love for his community. He was a proud graduate of East Carolina University, where he earned a Bachelor of Science in Business Administration, laying the foundation for a successful career in business. Rick spent his entire professional career in the Transportation Brokering Business. Rick founded CP Distribution and A.I.R. Storage in Rocky Mount, NC and later worked as an Independent Agent with Landstar Transportation. Rick was well known and respected as the consummate professional who always demonstrated integrity, honesty, a keen entrepreneurial vision and a strong work ethic.

Beyond his professional accomplishments, Rick was a devoted husband to Brenna, with whom he shared 22 years of marriage, and a loving father to Emily and his late son Michael, both of whom he loved and deeply cherished. He found immense joy in spending time with his family and friends, hosting many social gatherings at his home.

Known for his warm smile, generous spirit, and active role in local social circles, Rick was always the first to lend a hand or offer encouragement. Rick was a very active leader in the Rocky Mount Jaycees, the Coastal Plains Transportation Club and Good Shepherd Episcopal Church. In addition, he was a member of the Rocky Mount Shag Club and he and Brenna gave Shag Dance lessons for many years. Without a doubt Rick was one of the smoothest Shaggers in the Carolinas. Rick was also an avid golfer and loved spending time with his friends playing golf. His quick wit and humorous quips endeared him to all who were fortunate enough to know him. His presence brought energy to every gathering, and his kindness left a lasting impression on all who knew him. Rick’s generosity, compassion, intelligence and selflessness were just a few of his many gifts.

He is survived by his wife Brenna and his daughter Emily of Rocky Mount, NC, his brother Michael Bennett of Roanoke Rapids, NC and his son Josh Bennett and his wife Lauren also from Roanoke Rapids, and his sister Stephanie Dannenberg and her husband Scott of Raleigh, their daughter Ellie Bennett Wampler and her husband William of Wilmington, NC. Rick was preceded in death by his parents, Ralph and Pat Bennett of Roanoke Rapids and his son Michael Bennett of Rocky Mount. Rick also left behind his cherished extended family, Riki Mottershead of Cary, NC, Chet Mottershead and his wife Lynda of Raleigh and their sons Adam and Kennan, Pearce Mottershead of Asheville, NC and his daughters Alex and Sidney, and Cara Mottershead of Cary, NC.

A Celebration of Rick’s Life will be held on Saturday, June 28, 2025, at 2:00 PM at Good Shepherd Episcopal Church, 231 N. Church Street, Rocky Mount, NC  27804 with Rev. Rebecca Zartman Carpenter officiating.  A reception will immediately follow the service in the Fellowship Hall until 4:30 PM.

In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests that donations be made in his memory to Hospice of North Carolina, 75 Medical Park Lane Suite C, Murphy, NC  28906.

Rick’s legacy of love, laughter, and leadership will live on in the hearts of all who knew him

Arrangements entrusted to Wheeler & Woodlief Funeral Home & Cremation Services, 1130 N. Winstead Avenue, Rocky Mount, NC 27804.  You may share memories and condolences with the family by visiting www.wheelerwoodlief.com.