Alanda Thomas Bennett

Alanda T. Bennett passed away on April 24, 2022 at the age of 72. On a Sunday, she passed away peacefully surrounded by family members at her home in New Orleans. She was born on January 12, 1950 in Lockhart, TX and lived most of her life in Louisiana.

Alanda is survived by her beloved husband of 49 years Robert Turner (Bob) Bennett. She also had a loving family of mother Katie Thomas, brother Robert A. Thomas (Polly), sisters Robin T. Squyres, Ann T. Rogers (Bob) and Becky T. Allain (Larry). She was preceded in death by her father Julian “Doc” H. Thomas and brother-in-law Robin L. Squyres. Alanda had a loving and nurturing relation with all her nieces and nephews and great nieces and nephews. Her memory will long remain in their lives for the many good times and learning experiences they shared together.

Throughout her life Alanda had a way of living that can only be encapsulated by the French expression, Joie de vivre. Throughout her life she lived in Alexandria, LA; Lafayette, LA; Tampa, FL; and most recently New Orleans. She and Bob had a unique way of making each place they lived become their home and adding a new level of joy and excitement to the friends and places around them. 

She and her husband had close ties to the city of Lafayette, where they had attended University of Southwestern Louisiana (now the University of Louisiana, Lafayette) and resided in Lafayette for a number of years. She was recently recognized as a founding volunteer for the Festival International de Louisiane. Alanda had a creative spirit, love of people and boundless energy that had her returning for many years contributing to the Downtown Alive events of Lafayette.

When Alanda and Bob moved to Tampa, FL, they were determined to bring a little of the Louisiana culture with them. She established the Cajun Connection. This event continued for many years featuring Cajun and zydeco dancing, music, cochon de lait and of course, crawfish. Some of New Orleans finest bands and musicians, such as Dr. John often made appearances.

Alanda was equally involved in the events of New Orleans, working in the hospitality industry. Her training in Interior Design was often put to use in providing a setting for conventions, business meetings and most recently in service to the LSU School of Dentistry.

She loved her church and was an active member of the Rayne Memorial United Methodist Church. She loved working with the staff, volunteering for activities and worshipping with others. Her love of Christ and belief in salvation was a large part of her loving and giving spirit.

The family wishes to thank her personal caretaker Vanessa Johnson and the Compassus Hospice staff:  Jennah Dow, Jenny Matar, Robbie Ramos and Denise Bourg. Their loving care was greatly appreciated.

Family and friends are invited to a Memorial Service on May 28, 2022 at 11:00 AM at Rayne Memorial United Methodist Church, 3900 St. Charles Avenue, New Orleans, LA. Pastor Jay Hogewood will preside over the service. A Celebration of Alanda’s life will continue at the Bennett’s home, 1004 Second Street. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to one of Alanda’s passions:  Festival International de Louisiane, or Downtown Lafayette Unlimited (DTA!). Information on contributions can be found on their respective websites. 

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