What's Happening?
Ned Wesley Bennett, a prominent figure in the finance and broadcasting industries, passed away peacefully in Santa Fe, New Mexico, on October 1, 2025. Born in Columbus, Ohio, in 1942, Bennett had a diverse
career that spanned several industries. He was a graduate of The Ohio State University and played football under coach Woody Hayes. Bennett's career began in the entertainment industry, where he helped build and operate the Cape Cod Coliseum and managed the Mid-Hudson Civic Center. He later transitioned into finance, serving as President and CEO of Geldermann Securities and co-founding optionsXpress Holdings Inc., which went public in 2005. Bennett also fulfilled a lifelong dream by co-founding Bravo Mic Communications LLC, operating multiple radio stations. He is survived by his wife, Sandra Zane, and a large family.
Why It's Important?
Ned Bennett's contributions to the finance and broadcasting sectors have left a lasting impact. His work in the financial industry, particularly with optionsXpress Holdings, helped reshape the options trading landscape, leading to its acquisition by Charles Schwab. Bennett's innovative approach in both finance and broadcasting demonstrated the potential for cross-industry influence and entrepreneurship. His legacy includes not only his professional achievements but also his commitment to family and community, as evidenced by his involvement in local arts and his support for educational institutions. Bennett's passing marks the end of an era for those who knew him and worked alongside him.
What's Next?
A celebration of Ned Bennett's life is scheduled for December 27, 2025, at the House of Blues in Chicago, Illinois, with a secondary event planned in Santa Fe, New Mexico. These events will provide an opportunity for family, friends, and colleagues to honor his memory and reflect on his contributions. In lieu of flowers, donations are encouraged to the Alzheimer’s Foundation and the New Mexico School for the Arts, reflecting Bennett's commitment to philanthropy and education. His legacy will continue through the institutions he supported and the family he cherished.
