Mary Jane Bender

Mary Jane Bender, 86, formerly of Bucyrus, Ohio, died on Wednesday May 27, 2026 at Ohio Living Quaker Heights in Waynesville, Ohio.

She was born on Aug 2, 1939 in Upper Sandusky, Ohio to Russell Stover and Wilma Irene Gertenberger (Failor) and was a 1957 graduate of Nevada High School. Mary worked at Timken Roller Bearing for 35 years. Following her retirement, she worked at Central Monogramming for another 10 years.

Mary was a member of the Elks, Moose and American Legion Women's Auxiliary where she played Euchre weekly for many years. In addition, she bowled for over 50 plus years at both Suburban and Crawford Lanes and acted as League Treasurer. She traveled with her bowling buddies participating in many bowling tournaments around the country. She served her community as an election poll worker and Bratwurst Festival Volunteer. In addition, she played dominos weekly with her dear friends and former bowling teammates. She was an excellent seamstress and an avid collector of Beanie Babies.

Mary Jane (MJ) with be remembered for her quiet patient nature and dedicated service to her family, friends and community. She was a cherished wife, mother, grandmother, aunt and friend.

She will be greatly missed by her children, Judy (Jerry) Fatzinger, Joy Bender, Jeffrey (Vickie) Bender, Joan Bender, and Jerri (Doug) Bernt; grandchildren, Edward, Lisa, Nathan, Trish, Andrew, Jamie, Jonathan, Sarah, Elizabeth, CJ, Olivia and Kasey; great grandchildren, Ethan, Braden, Lillian, Harrison, Brody, Cain, Ben, Morgan, Katherine, James and Nashton. She is also survived by her half sister Barb Stover; nieces Alaire (Craig) Blair and Brandy (David) Clark; and great niece Briana.

MJ was preceded in death by her husband, James F. Bender; sister, Carol Ann Morrison (Failor); stepsister, Beverly Furillo Madison; and brother-in-law, The Honorable John F. Bender.

MJ's family will celebrate her life on Tuesday June 2, 2026. Calling hours will be from 1 pm to 2 pm at Wise Funeral Home followed by a service at the funeral home. Graveside services will be held privately for the family. She will be laid to rest in Nevada Cemetery.

If desired, donations can be made to Crossroads Hospice who provided extraordinary care in her time of need. These gifts will be accepted through Wise Funeral Service. Online memories and expressions of sympathy are encouraged to be shared with the family via her guestbook page at www.wisefuneral.com.