Joan E. Bender, 93, of Lebanon, passed away Wednesday, February 28, 2024 at Cedar Haven Nursing Home. She was the wife of the late James F. Bender.

Born in Lebanon, PA on December 10, 1930, Joan was a daughter of the late George and Margaret (Sholly) May. She was a devoted wife, mom, and grandmother. She enjoyed cooking, sewing, gardening, her cats, and being with her family. Sunday dinners with family was always the highlight of the week.

Joan is survived by three daughters, Mick Bender of California, Beverly A. Bender-Eck, wife of David of Annville, and Magdalen (Biz) Miller, wife of Wayne of Myerstown; four grandchildren: Zachary Peffley, Nikki Peffley, Thaddeaus Farmon, husband of Marissa, and Kylee Pastal, wife of John; five great grandchildren: Zachary Peffley, Keerah Peffley, Bria Peffley, Chloe Pastal, and Charlotte Pastal.

In addition to her husband, she was preceded in death by her son, Edward Bender and grandson, Jake Farmon.

Mass of Christian Burial will be held at 10:00 am on Thursday, March 7, 2024 at St. Mary's Church, 2 N 8th St, Lebanon, PA 17046. Interment will follow at Indiantown Gap National Cemetery. Thompson Funeral Home, Inc. is entrusted with the arrangements.  Please share your memories with the family at our online guest book at thompsonfuneralhomelebanon.com