Anna Marie Bender of Red Bank passed from this life peacefully surrounded by family Feb. 26, 2023.
Beginning from her birth in Pennsylvania until her death she nourished family and friends with love, faith and joy.
Anne attended St. Anthony’s Catholic Church and was a member of Catholic Daughters. Later in life Anne’s love of music and dancing inspired her to learn to play the organ. In addition to her boundless love and optimism, she leaves a legacy of her creative talents; quilts to give warmth and oil paintings to add beauty.
After raising her eight children, she returned to work and had a long career as a book keeper for the State of New Jersey. Retirement offered Anne time to pursue new interests. She joined her husband volunteering at Riverview Hospital. Together they enjoyed a bowling team and time with their large extended family.
Anne was predeceased by William J. Bender, her loving husband of 61 years, six siblings and a granddaughter. She is survived by her eight children and their spouses: Bill (Enid), Mary Anne (Hugh), Kathleen, James (Patti), Norman (Patti), Janice (John), Nancy (John) and Lisa (Rick); 14 grandchildren; 19 great-grandchildren; and many nieces and nephews.
Although the family’s hearts are grieving as they bid farewell to their dear mother, they take comfort knowing she will be greeted in her eternal home by family who preceded her and a chorus of angels. She will surely have her dancing shoes on.
Visitation was held March 2 at Thompson Memorial Home, Red Bank. A Mass of Christian Burial was held March 3 at St. Anthony of Padua Catholic Church, Red Bank. Burial will be private.
The article originally appeared in the March 16 – 22, 2023 print edition of The Two River Times.
