Jeanette Benton Berndt

Jeanette Benton Berndt, lovingly known as Net and Little Lulu, passed away peacefully on March 28, 2026.

Born on July 23, 1943, in Waxahachie, Texas, to Elsie and Williford Donawho, Jeanette grew up surrounded by a large, close-knit family. She shared a deep and unbreakable bond with her siblings—leaning on one another through life’s challenges and celebrating every joy together. She spoke of them often and with great affection, holding each one close to her heart.

Family was the center of Jeanette’s world. She cherished every gathering, holiday, and milestone, creating memories that will be treasured for generations. As her family grew, so did her love. Her home was a place of warmth and welcome—where the door was always open, and no one ever needed to knock. Jeanette’s kindness, generosity, and boundless hospitality were gifts she offered freely to all who entered her life.

In her thirties, Jeanette pursued her dream of becoming a nurse, attending The University of Texas at Arlington while raising three children. She earned her bachelor's degree in nursing and began her career in the emergency department, where her passion and talent quickly became evident. Colleagues affectionately called her “Dr. Jeanette” for her sharp instincts and unwavering dedication to saving lives. Nursing wasn’t just her profession—it was part of her soul.

Jeanette was also an artist with a voice that could stop a room. She sang with strength, emotion, and beauty that left people in awe. Whether performing on stage or singing among loved ones, her voice carried the spirit of the artists she adored—Patsy Cline, Loretta Lynn, Dolly Parton and Etta James. To hear Jeanette sing was to witness something unforgettable.

A woman of deep faith, Jeanette believed wholeheartedly in the promise of eternal peace through Jesus Christ. She often spoke of the day she would reunite with her loved ones in Heaven. If she could speak to us now, she would surely say: “Don’t be sad for me, because I’m in heavenly peace with my beloved family.” She is now reunited with Bobby Benton, Cloreese Benton, Robbie Camp, Jonathan Zurek, Wiliiford Donawho, Elsie Garrison Donawho, Christine Capps, Beatrice (Bea) Pinyan, Geraldine (Blondie) Meadows, James Donawho, Linda Crew, Vincent Donawho, and many cherished relatives and friends who welcomed her home.

Jeanette is survived by her children, Keith Benton and Candace Zurek; daughter‑in‑law Debbie Benton; son‑in‑law Bruce Zurek; sister Ima Jean Donawho McReynolds; grandchildren Brandy Barton and spouse (Gary), Keith Benton Jr. and spouse (Emily), Jerry Benton, Michael Zurek, Elsie Garcia, Eric Castanuela, Brandy Hood, Christopher Zurek, Austin Zurek; and many great‑grandchildren, nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends who will carry her memory until they meet again in glory.