James T. Bennett, Sr., of Rockland died on July 19, 2014 at his home surrounded and cared for by his family after a long battle with Cancer.

Known by his friends as "Tommy", he served in the U.S. Navy as an engine mechanic on the Assault Craft Unit One based in coronado, California. He was an ace mechanic who always aimed for perfection. Mr. Bennett was a licensed HVAC technician and was last employed by Boston Air.

Music was always a passion for Tommy and he enjoyed several years from 1977 to 1980 as the front man for his southern rock band, Southern Comfort. Another passion of his was the ocean, he was an avid boater and fisherman.

He was a generous loving man and had a way of bringing out laughter from those around him. Above all else, his family was the most important to him and brought him the most joy in his life. Toward the end of his life he was introduced to his dog Jakey, the two became an inseperable pair right to the very end. Jakey always provided Tommy with compassion and comfort.

He is survived by his wife Patricia Bennett and his sons James Bennett, Jr. and his wife Erin and Derek Bennett.

The family welcomes friends and loved ones to celebrate Tommy's life on Friday, July 25, 2014, at the Magoun-Biggins Funeral Home, 135 Union Street, Rockland, from 5-8 PM. A Funeral Mass will be held on Saturday, July 26, 2014, at 9:00 AM in Holy Family Church in Rockland. Cremation will follow.