Mary Joan Bender

Mary “Joan” Bender, 86, of Avon Park, Florida, passed away peacefully on April 16, 2026, leaving behind a legacy of love and joy. A devoted and selfless mother, grandmother, and great grandmother, “Grandma Joan” was known for her unwavering support of her children and grandchildren, driving daily to their chosen sports and activities while maintaining an enriching and loving home.

Born in Lancaster, Ohio, she attended St Mary’s Catholic School. Her childhood companion was her dog Mitzi. An avid bike rider, she taught herself to ride at age 5 and was still riding at 85. In high school she was captain of her volleyball team. After graduation, she loved working for a pediatrician and wanted to be a nurse. Instead, she choose marriage and a family and always said that turned out great! She enjoyed volunteering at hospitals as she loved caring for people. She had a special affinity for babies and dogs, and they in turn had a special affinity for her. She spent several years doing her duty as an election judge in Illinois. Most important of all to her, she embraced her Catholic faith throughout her life and was a Eucharistic Minister at Our Lady of Grace Catholic Church.

Joan found joy and indulged her competitive spirit on the golf course throughout her life. She also enjoyed bowling and volleyball with her beloved husband, Gerald “Jerry” Joseph Bender in their younger years. A lifelong bridge player, she enjoyed playing mahjong and other card games. She passed her competitive spirit on to her daughters, Ann (Rocky) Perko, Nancy (Fred) Hausman, Jane (Gary) Devenish, and Karen (Patrick) Callaghan. She is survived by her four children, eight grandchildren, one great grandchild (and one on the way!), a sister-in-law, brother-in-law, many nieces and nephews and their children. She was much loved by family, friends, and neighbors. Her life was defined by and filled with her love and devotion to all of them.

Her funeral will be held on May 22, 2026, at 11:00AM at Our Lady of Grace Catholic Church. Burial will follow at Lakeview Memorial Gardens.

In lieu of plants, memorial contributions may be made in Mary Joan's honor to Our Lady of Grace Catholic Church, 595 E. Main Street, Avon Park, FL 33825.