Sallye Jolene Bennett

     Sallye Jolene “Jo” Bennett passed away August 2, 2026, in Norman, Oklahoma at the age of 71 years 7 months 15 days. A Private Family Graveside service will be held at Warren Cemetery in Norman, Oklahoma, entrusted to the care of Wadley’s Funeral Service.

     Jo was born December 18, 1954, in Holdenville, Oklahoma to John Tidwell and Verlene (Mullins) Roberts. She was raised in Holdenville, graduating in 1972. Her journey in academia led her to the University of Oklahoma and East Central University, where she earned a master's in psychology, reflecting her deep commitment to understanding and aiding others. Throughout her life, Jo was a beacon of hard work and dedication. A retiree of the Oklahoma Department of Human Services and the owner of Life Span Counseling, her passion for assisting those in need was evident. After the untimely loss of her twin sister Jeanne, Jo co-owned Havenbrook Funeral Home and Southhaven Crematory alongside her parents, channeling her empathy into new ventures. Her leadership shone brightly within the Norman Rotary Club, where she proudly served as President. Jo's love for the outdoors and adventure was rivaled only by her intellectual pursuits. She was a spirited sailor, attaining her Captain's credentials, and reveled in riding horses, shooting, hunting, and exploring the vast expanse of nature. Jo's thirst for knowledge was as boundless as her love for travel, often exploring cultural riches and architectural marvels with friends, including a cherished companion from Switzerland. Her encounters with luminaries such as Liberace stand testament to her vibrant life filled with music, art, and literature. Above all, Jo treasured her family and friendships, finding joy in shared holidays and journeys. She leaves behind a legacy of love, curiosity, and unwavering dedication to her community and loved ones.

     Jo is preceded in death by her father, John Tidwell Roberts; her twin sister, Jeanne Roberts Gatewood; her maternal grandparents, Vernon and Beatrice Mullins; her paternal grandparents, Couch and Sallye Roberts; and numerous aunts and uncles. Survivors include her mother, Verlene Roberts; her son, Steven Bennett; her sister, Robbin Roberts and husband, Gregory Henderson; her brother, John Len Roberts and wife, Kathy; her nieces and nephews, Jonathan Roberts and wife, Kenya, Rachel Easton and husband, Curtis, Rebekah Staggs and husband, Tony, Benjamin Roberts and wife, Birgit, Nathanael Roberts and wife, Emily, Jorgeann Rojas, Andrew Salas; and numerous great nieces and nephews and other family and friends.