Kim Marie (Talcott) Bennett

UTICA – Kim Marie (Talcott) Bennett, age 62, passed away on Thursday, December 5, 2024, following a valiant battle with an aggressive Stage IV cancer. Born in Little Falls on December 31, 1961, Kim was the daughter of the late Fay and Gladys (Downs) Talcott. She attended West Canada Valley Central Schools, and Poland High School. A natural fighter, Kim was not a stranger to life’s hardships, beginning with successfully managing her epilepsy since her childhood. She also didn’t shy away from making sacrifices and navigating through broken trust. However, she never lost hope in the goodness of people. Eighteen years ago, at a cookout, she met Anthony Strickland through mutual friends. It was love at first sight for both of them! Their committed partnership brought her a renewed sense of joy. Kim was outgoing, creative, fun, and kind. She especially enjoyed shopping for all the good deals! She also possessed an exceptional talent for crocheting. It was normal for her to spend many hours a day on a project, whether crafting countless blankets or beautiful clothing. Kim delighted in outdoor activities, including maintaining the yard, and taking peaceful drives through the countryside. She always treated everyone “very well” when hosting cookouts for family and friends. Growing up a country girl, a great source of comfort for her was spending time on the farm with the animals, and riding horses with her sister, Trudy. Kim’s Christian faith provided her with much encouragement and love. Kim is survived by her love, Anthony Strickland; and her sister, Gertrude “Trudy” Rusaw, with whom she shared a special closeness, and who will miss Kim’s daily phone calls. She is additionally survived by her four children and their families, Rebecca, Joseph Talcott, Felicia Bennett, and John “Scotty” Bennett; nieces, Jennifer Williamson, Jessica Longo, Cherish Everson, Bridget Rusaw, Stephanie Rusaw, and Amanda Santy; many great-nieces, great-nephews, cousins; and members of Anthony’s family, including his mother, Helen and her husband Neil Saxe; and his siblings, Brian Saxe, David Saxe, Cornell Strickland, Michael McGill, Timothy McGill, Veronica Strickland, and Cynthia Dennis. Kim was predeceased by her nephew, Joshua Rusaw (1988). Visitation will be held on Tuesday, December 10, 2024, from 10:00-11:00 a.m. at the Eannace Funeral Home, Inc., 932 South St., corner of Hammond Ave. Kim’s funeral service and Celebration of Life will commence at 11:00 a.m. at the funeral home. Interment will follow in Forest Hill Cemetery.

Kim Marie (Talcott) Bennett

December 31, 1961 - December 5, 2024