The Correctional Peace Officers Foundation joins the corrections and law enforcement communities in mourning the passing of Charles “Charlie” Leroy Bennett Sr., who passed away on July 22, 2026, at the age of 81.
Charlie was born on April 23, 1945, and was the adopted son of Warren and Mary Bennett of Middlesboro, Kentucky. Throughout his life, he built a legacy defined by service, hard work, and a genuine commitment to helping others.
After graduating from the Pineville School of Nursing in Pineville, Kentucky, Charlie began his professional career as a Licensed Vocational Nurse. He worked in the nursing field in both Kentucky and California, including at Our Lady of Peace Hospital.
Charlie’s professional journey reflected his versatility and strong work ethic. In addition to his nursing career, he drove for Greyhound, operated long-haul trucks, worked in property management, and helped operate a tour bus.
In 1983, Charlie began what would become more than three decades of dedicated service with the California Department of Corrections. Drawing upon his medical training and experience, he served the department and the people around him with professionalism and compassion. He also served as President of the Board of Vocational Nurses and Psychiatric Technicians.
Although Charlie eventually retired from the department, his desire to serve others continued. He generously gave his time and heart to the Correctional Peace Officers Foundation and the California Highway Patrol, remaining connected to the community that had been such an important part of his life.
CPOF is deeply grateful for Charlie’s friendship, support, and commitment to the correctional profession. His willingness to continue serving after retirement spoke to the kind of person he was—someone who understood the importance of showing up for others and strengthening the bonds within the corrections and law enforcement families.
Charlie was preceded in death by his parents, Warren and Mary Bennett; his brothers, Robert “Bobby” Coleman Sr. and James Coleman Sr.; and his eldest son, Anthony Duane Bennett.
He leaves behind his children, Charles Leroy Bennett Jr., Angela Michelle Thompson, Eric Michael Bennett and his wife, Carrie, and Ryan Charles Bennett and his wife, Victoria. He is also survived by his grandchildren, McKenzie McKee, Isabella Bennett, Madison Thompson, Marcus Bennett, Tariq Bennett, Braylon Bennett, Malia Bennett, and Daxson Bennett; his great-granddaughter, Kinsley McKee; and his siblings, Rosalind Coleman, Regina Tolliver and her husband, Charles, and Ronald Coleman and his wife, Cynthia.
Charlie was also blessed with an extended family and many friends whom he held close to his heart. His memory will live on through the people he loved, the careers he influenced, and the communities he served.
Celebration of Life
A Celebration of Life honoring Charlie will be held:
Sunday, September 27, 2026
12:00 p.m.–3:00 p.m.
Cameron Park Country Club
3201 Royal Drive
Cameron Park, CA 95682
The Correctional Peace Officers Foundation extends its deepest condolences to Charlie’s children, grandchildren, great-granddaughter, siblings, extended family, friends, and former colleagues.
Charlie’s lifetime of service will not be forgotten. We are grateful for everything he contributed to CPOF and to the greater corrections and law enforcement communities.
Rest in peace, Charlie. Thank you for your service, your friendship, and the heart you gave to so many.
