South Central Reporter

Members of the Illinois General Assembly are mourning the death of State Sen. Scott M. Bennett, a Champaign Democrat who had served in the chamber since 2015.

State Sen. Jason Plummer, (R-Edwardsville) noted on his Facebook page that Bennett passed away Dec. 9.

“This is a very tough post to write,” he posted on Facebook. “I received a call earlier this afternoon that State Sen. Scott Bennett of Champaign died earlier today. Scott was 45, a husband, a father, and a dedicated public servant.”

Bennett's wife, Stacy, released a statement in the wake of her husband’s death from complications from a brain tumor.

“We are devastated to share that our beloved Scott has passed away,” she said in the statement. “We remain in complete shock because it was all so sudden and unexpected. Scott will forever be known for being an extraordinary father, husband, and friend. His quick humor and wit could light up any room he entered. We will miss his stories, the way he could always make people laugh, and his genuine kindness.”

Stacy Bennett noted that her husband had lived a life full of service and wa s always seeking ways to offer his time and energy to help his community and state.

“He worked tirelessly to find solutions to society’s most pressing issues by finding common ground and compromise,” she continued in the release. “To say he will be greatly missed is an understatement. We appreciate the amazing care he received at Carle Foundation Hospital and thank all of the doctors, nurses, and staff who provided Scott with excellent care and support for his family. We are also grateful for the outpouring of love and support. Scott’s impact on our community is very evident.”

According to the Illinois General Assembly website, Bennett had served in the Senate since January 2015 and served on a number of committees.

WCIA reported on Dec. 8, a day before his death, that Bennett’s office acknowledged that the senator was being treated at Carle Foundation Hospital.