Obituary of Mary E. Bender

Mary E. Bender, age 63 of Flemington, NJ, died Wednesday, April 18, 2012 at the Hunterdon Medical Center in Flemington. Mary was born in Plainfield, NJ and had lived in Piscataway before moving to Flemington 32 years ago. In 1966 Mary was in the first class to graduate from Union Catholic High School. Mary worked for the Allstate Insurance Company for over 20 years. She started as a clerk then claims adjuster before retiring as a supervisor. She was an extremely active member of Our Lady of Lourdes Church in Whitehouse Station. She was a member of the Rosary Altar Society, Our Lady of Lourdes Catholic Charismatic Prayer Group, a coordinator for the Interfaith Hospitality Network, a coordinator for the Sheppard's Meal, on the committee for Father Gall's Memorial Garden, a facilitator of the Small Church Group and a Eucharistic Minister. Mary's faith, family and friendships were the most important aspects of her life. Those who knew her felt truly blessed and inspired by her. She had a true gift of making people feel special. She made the most of her time here on earth and will be extremely missed. Mary was predeceased by her mother, Frances. She is survived by her husband and best friend of 38 years, Stanley Bender, her dear sister, Patricia Phillips of South Plainfield, her two adored nieces, Marie Castricone of Tuxedo, NY, and Roseann Phillips of South Plainfield. She is also survived by her precious great niece, Samantha Castricone and great nephews, John, and Daniel Castricone. A funeral liturgy will be celebrated on Monday, April 23, 2012 at 9:30 AM at Our Lady of Lourdes Church, Whitehouse Station. Friends may visit with the family on Sunday from 4:00 to 7:00 PM at Our Lady of Lourdes Church, 390 Route 523, Whitehouse Station, NJ 08889. In lieu of flowers a special memorial will be established in honor of Mary for the Church to purchase special chairs for the handicapped.