A Tribute to Jack J. Bennett

Jack J. Bennett (Photo – jackjelvis)

Sometimes someone touches your life in ways you don’t realize, until they leave you suddenly.

By Lisa Stanley

Pasadena lost a stellar member of the community on April 23^rd: Jack J. Bennett, 51, Artistic Director of The Fremont Center Theatre,  was one of the kindest, most talented, hard-working, delightful people I have ever met. His wife, Gloria Bennett is the same and they were such a great team — Partners in every aspect of their lives.

Jack was an attentive and loving father to Gloria’s daughter, Miranda, and caring son to her father, helping him when he was sick. Jack and Gloria worked tirelessly. Even during the pandemic when times were scary for the two of them, they both rallied and kept theatre alive for the youth of the community. Jack was such a renaissance man, being director, teacher, set-builder, janitor, actor and cheerleader for these young souls. Every time I saw Jack, it was such a positive experience being in his presence. He made you feel like you were the most important person in the world, when you knew he had the world on his broad shoulders. I am heartbroken at the sudden, too soon, loss of this great man. Oh, for just one more conversation to tell him what he meant to me. Jack, I know you will be directing us all from heaven, with the passion and love you had on this planet. I miss you already, big guy!! You were family to me. I hope you know that.

Lisa Stanley is an actress, singer and producer in the Los Angeles area.