Joyce "Joy" Leanda Esters Bennett, 76, of Baltimore, MD., returned to her heavenly home on Sunday, April 8, 2018 after a valiant battle with Alzheimer's. Her Firm belief in God supported her in her struggle and ultimately gave her peace. A native of Baltimore, Joy was the daughter Samuel and Anne Esters, born on Thursday, April 24, 1941. Joy received her formative education in the Catholic Diocese in Baltimore. She was immersed in the Catholic Community and that became her lifelong support system from an early age. She attended Rutgers University where she earned a Bachelor's Degree in Psychology and earned her Master's Degree in Social Work from Glassboro University. Lt. Col. Finch-Bennett served in the U.S. Army veteran as an Intelligence Specialist. Joy was an educator at heart. She was kind, soft spoken, full of life with a captivating smile. She always had time to answer a question or solve a problem, no matter how small. She was preceded in eternal rest by her brother, Samuel Eugene (Gene) Esters.

To cherish her memories: Son, Michael Alonzo (CoCo) Finch); daughters, Robina Leanda Bright; Maria Antoinette Bosley; 9 grandchildren, Kimberly (Colin), Michael, Antwine, Mark, Reginald (Shakia), RaShaun, YaShauna (D'John), Richard, Nevaeh. Eight great-grandchildren, Reginald Jr., Kayden, Raielle, AnnaManiah, Royal, Reyzon and King James; brother, William Mishe (Regina) Esters; and a host of nieces, nephews, cousins and friends.

A Celebration Mass with Military Honors will be 11:30 a.m., Saturday, April 14 at "March's Life Tribute Center, 5616 Old Court Road, (Randallstown) Windsor Mill, MD., 21244 . Reverend Dennis Hicks, is the eulogist. Committal will be at the Jacksonville National Cemetery, Jacksonville, FL.

In lieu of flowers, the Finch-Bennett family gratefully appreciates prayers, condolences, and sharing of memories: www.flaggserenitychapel.com or www.marchlifetributecenter.com.