In Memoriam: Longtime Red Bank Resident, Anna Marie Bender

“Although our hearts are grieving as we bid farewell to our dear mother, we take comfort knowing she will be greeting in her eternal home by family who preceded her and a chorus of angels. She will surely have her dancing shoes on.” ~ family of Anna Marie Bender

Longtime Red Bank resident Anna Marie Bender “passed from this life peacefully surrounded by family” on Feb. 26.

Anna Marie Bender
Photo/family via Thompson Memorial Home

“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 us a legacy of her creative talents; quilts to wrap us in her warmth and oil paintings to add beauty to our days.

“After raising her eight children, Anne returned to work and had a long career as a bookkeeper 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.”
Loved ones of Anna Marie Bender in her obituary

Anne is predeceased by: William J. Bender, her loving husband of 61 years; six siblings; and a granddaughter. S

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.

Visitation will be held on Thursday, March 2, from 4 to 7 p.m. at Thompson Memorial Home, Red Bank. Mass of christian burial will be held on Friday, March 3 at 10 a.m. at St. Anthony of Padua Catholic Church, 121 Bridge Ave, Red Bank. Burial will be private.

— Edited obituary prepared by family via Thompson Memorial Home