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Local racing loses great friend in Diane Bennett

MACON, Ill. – Diane Carol Bennett, longtime scorekeeper at Macon Speedway and a friend to dirt track racing for more than 30 years, passed away Wednesday. Her legacy will be missed.

A lifelong area resident and the scorekeeper for more than 30 seasons at Macon Speedway, Track Enterprises and Farmer City Raceway, Diane was an integral part of the local racing scene for more than three decades. At the time of her death, she also served as the promoter of Cerro Gordo Speedway, where she worked with her husband, Tommie.

“Diane was a wonderful lady, and she will be missed by all of us in the racing community,’’ said Macon Speedway promoter Bob Sargent. “Diane worked hard to insure proper results were posted, and she always gave an extra effort to be accurate, fair and impartial. She was a backbone to racing in Central Illinois.’’

Diane and Tommie built Cerro Gordo Speedway into the best go-kart dirt track in Central Illinois, and the couple took great pride in preparing a fabulous place for racers to enjoy the sport. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to Cerro Gordo Speedway, 155 N. 33rd, Decatur, IL, 62521.

Funeral services will be held at 1 p.m. Saturday, Feb. 7 at Brintlinger and Earl Funeral Home, Decatur, with visitation from 5 to 8 p.m. at the funeral home. The family requests casual attire. Burial will be private at a later date.

Diane loved all kinds of auto racing, camping and the outdoors. She loved spending time with her children and grandchildren.

She is survived by her husband of 41 years, Thomas Bennett of Decatur; son Chad Bennett (Jennifer); daughters Krystal Bennett (Andrew), Kellie Bennett (Jennifer); grandchildren Lexi Bennett, Koady Bennett, Ciley Bennett, Rockett Bennett, Calia Bennett, Bailey Bennett, Rase Bennett, Ginger Thomas, Belle Thomas; and very special pets Molly, T-Bone, Forrest and Cato.

The family would also like to give special thanks to close friends Chuck and Kyra Carlson.

Immediately after Diane's Memorial Service we are having a potluck/fellowship in remembrance of Diane's life at Macon County Fairgrounds Bingo Hall Anyone wanting to donate food or drinks please contact Tonya Cecil at 972-0879 Linda Thevenot 820-4774 or Dana Fleming at 428-0589. Thanks in advance for your love and generosity.

Bob Sargent and everyone at Macon Speedway would like to send condolences to the Bennett family. You are in our thoughts and prayers.

 

 

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