Kimberly Lynn Bennett (nee Hicks) was the most exciting development of 1965 for the Hicks’ family. She came into our world on New Years’ Eve and left our world 60 years, 9 months and 29 days later. She was preceded in death by her mother, Frances Virginia Hicks (nee Emmert) and her father, Paul Albert Hicks. She is now reunited with them and with her siblings, Susan Delores Hopkins (nee Hicks), Paul Albert Hicks Jr. (“Tootie”) and Brenda Raye Bitzer (nee Hicks). She also joins her bonus parents, Pauline and Leon Emmert.

Kimberly’s love and pride in her only son, John Franklin Bennett, was genuine and will be remembered by her family. In addition to her son, she leaves behind her siblings, William David Hicks and his wife Glenda Joyce Hicks, James Richard Hicks and his wife Patricia Hicks, Deborah Neeley, and Linda Kaye Ryder (nee Hicks) and her husband Michael Ryder. Bonus siblings will also feel her absence, Cathie Emmert, Jackie Tester (nee Emmert), Tina Bell (nee Emmert) and Derek Emmert. She is also leaving behind countless nieces, nephews and friends.

Her friends in NA cannot be forgotten when remembering her life. Her sobriety was very important to her and though she faltered, she continued to work steps. Friends in Recovery keep on.

Kimberly left a big mark on the world and those around her, especially for one so small. She was fortunate to spend her last few months in this world at Accent Care Hospice Inpatient Center at Franklin Square Medical Center. She received quality compassionate end of life care with the angels at this facility.

Her family is comforted to know that she joins all her loved ones in Heaven. They are further grateful that she is no longer in pain.

Kimberly’s path was long and winding, but she always attempted to be a better version of herself. She was a forgiving and kind person. She had a flair and charisma that is quite unmatched in this world.

Her crusade against her breast cancer diagnosis was long. She fought so very hard for 16 years before she succumbed to her illness.

Forever, will her family and friends remember her and continue to love her. Everyone that knew her has a Kimmy story. Please remember your Kimmy story and take a minute every so often to share it with others. She will live on in these stories and memories. Kimmy, we love you forever and bye for now.

A graveside celebration of life will be held at 11:00 a.m. Saturday, November 7, 2026 at West End Cemetery where she will be interred with her mother and father.

Barnett Funeral Home, Wytheville, VA is serving the family.