Jennifer Lee Bender passed away peacefully on February 16, 2022, at home, surrounded by her loving family. She was born May 31, 1971, in Charleston, South Carolina. She is survived by her parents, Les and Sally Bender of Tarboro; her brother, Jonathan Bender and his wife Gretchen; her nieces Katie, Abbie and Johanna, and her nephew, Micah, all of Lititz, PA and many aunts, uncles, and cousins.

Jenny was proud of her status as a Navy brat and enjoyed living in South Carolina, California, and Virginia. She graduated from Menchville High School in Newport News, Virginia in 1991. She had many lifelong friends from her various church families. She loved animals and volunteered faithfully for hundreds of hours at SPCA in Newport News.

Jennifer faced many challenges in her life but kept a positive attitude and demeanor. Even as she struggled with her recent illness, she always responded to the doctors with "I'm fine, I'm great. How are you?" She touched many people with her courage, her faith, and her brave spirit. We know she is happy to finally be in her "better place". Her family is so grateful to the many doctors, nurses and caregivers that treated Jennifer with dignity and respect during her illness and to her aunt Cathy Butler who came from California to assist in her hospice care.

A memorial service will be held at 11:00 a.m., on Saturday, February 26, 2022, at Pinetops United Methodist Church, 111 N. 3rd Street, Pinetops, North Carolina 27864. In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to The Doorways, 612 E. Marshall Street, Richmond, Virginia, 23219, or to your favorite animal rescue organization.