ELKHART -- Jeanette Eleanor Bender, 71, of Stratford Commons, died at 9:45 p.m. Sunday (Oct. 19, 2008) in Hospice House, South Bend.

She was born Sept. 26, 1937, in Elkhart to John Leonard Sr. and Hazel J. (Hixon) Clipp.

Ms. Bender is survived by three sons, Douglas J. Bender of Elkhart, Brian K. Bender of Albion and Eric P. Bender of Dearborn, Mich.; four grandchildren; one brother, John (Audrey) Clipp Jr. of Fairoaks, Calif.; one sister, JoAnn Soltani of Hillsboro, Ore.; and her former husband, Jim K. Bender of Elkhart.

She was preceded in death by her twin sister, Jan E. Timerick, and one brother, Jim Clipp.

Ms. Bender was a former receptionist/secretary at Elkhart Brass Manufacturing Co. for more than nine years. She had attended St. Paul's United Methodist Church, Elkhart.

She enjoyed painting, arts and crafts and watching "Gunsmoke" and "Bonanza" on television. Ms. Bender loved plants, flowers and decorating her patio and home. She will be remembered as a sweet-natured and tenderhearted woman.

Friends may call for two hours prior to today's noon funeral service at Billings Funeral Home, 812 Baldwin St., Elkhart. Pastor Dale Turner will officiate. Cremation will follow the service.

Memorials may be given to the charity of the donor's choice. Visit www.billingsfuneralhome.com to send online condolences.