Shirley Marion Bender

Shirley “Mo” Marion Bender, 89, a lifelong resident and native of Pensacola died peacefully Monday, April 3, 2023, at Sodalis Assisted Living Facility in the presence of her family who loved her dearly. She was of the Catholic faith and a member of Northridge Church. Mo was preceded in death by her parents, Bessie Gordon Quina and Julian J. L. Quina; her loving husband of 46 years, Lewis August Bender, Jr.; brother, Ronald Quina; son, William J. Bender; and grandson, Ross Lewis Bender. Mo leaves behind her loving family which includes her sons, David Bender (Michele), Marty Bender (Julie), Scott Bender (Lisa); six grandchildren, Kristin (Elliott), Rachel (Scott), Megan (Mike), Leah (John), Jodi (Andrew), and Rayley (Caleb); ten great grandchildren, Ross, Ivey, Jett, Jude, Camden, Blake, Sadie, Lydia, John Keller, and Finn; her beloved siblings, Julian “Jack” Quina, Linda Jo Landry (Greg), Susan Mills (Larry), and Karon Robinson; daughter-in-law Carmen Bender and many numerous nephews, nieces and cousins that she loved dearly. She was a graduate of Catholic High School where she met the love of her life, Lewis “Chief” Bender, Jr., as a sophomore. They ultimately were engaged while she was in nursing school. Mo always put God, family, and friends first and foremost. She thoroughly enjoyed her church groups and served God unconditionally and faithfully. Mo cherished her relationships with the River Valley Camping family, her numerous travel adventures, and her competitive card groups. Mo was a staunch believer in helping the less fortunate as witnessed by her involvement and countless volunteer activities. To name a few; Meals on Wheels, Loaves and Fishes, Sacred Heart Cardio Floor and too many more to mention. Mo retired from the Escambia County School System after 30 years. She held the position of Executive Secretary to the principals at the following schools: Workman Middle, Woodham High, Pine Forest High and Myrtle Grove Elementary. The celebration of Mo’s life will be held on Friday, April 14, 2023, at Faith Chapel Funeral Home South on 100 Beverly Parkway, Pensacola, FL 32505, officiated by the Senior Pastor, Randy Hamil, of Northridge Church. The visitation will be from 10:30 a.m. - 12:00 p.m. and service to follow from 12:00 p.m. – 1:30 p.m. Mo’s five grandson-in-laws and one great grandson will be her pallbearers. The burial will follow the services at Barrancas National Cemetery Faith Chapel Funeral Home South, 100 Beverly Pkwy., Pensacola, Florida 32505 entrusted with arrangements. You may express your condolences online at www.fcfhs.com.

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Shirley Marion Bender

April 28, 1933 - April 3, 2023