Peggy J. Bender, 67, of Elkhart, passed away after a courageous battle with Pancreatic Cancer. She was born in Kokomo, IN to the late Richard Bowen and Norma (Hayworth) Jarvis.

Peggy is also preceded in death by her granddaughter, Chasity Stephenson; brothers, Ronald and Markey Bowen; and her best furry friend, Puppy. She is survived by her children, Karen (Matthew) Carroll, Deborah McClure, Ryan (Bernadette Gordan) Roberts, Amy (Michael) Butler; honorary daughter, Angela Brewer; grandchildren, Ashley Ybarra, Chaz (Brooke Gilbert) Wagner, Chase (Emily) Stephenson, O'livia Williams, Ethan McClure, Amellya Butler, Lucelleah Butler, Royal Butler, Emmalee Schrock, Carson Schrock, Lyric Brewer, Rhythm Brewer, Maestro Brewer, Tempo Brewer; 17 great grandchildren; siblings, Richard Bowen, Jane Bapp, and Charlene Davis; companions, Dan and Tom Ramza; and faithful canine, Buddy.

Visitation will be held on Monday, February 17, 2025, from 3 to 6 p.m. at Billings Funeral Home, 812 Baldwin St. in Elkhart. Memorial donations may be given to Cancer Resources for Elkhart County, 23971 U.S. Highway 33, Elkhart, Indiana 46517. Per her request Peggy's cremated remains will be scattered among Alabama mountains as it was her favorite place to visit, Roll Tide.

Peggy was an independent but caring woman; she never minced her words. To be close to her meant you were part of her family. She worked for many years in local factories as a production worker and made friends with many of her coworkers. Cookouts and delicious hobo dinners with her family were an absolute highlight for her. She prided herself on decorating for all the seasons, especially Christmas and Easter. During Easter she enjoyed putting together baskets for all the kids. In her spare time, she enjoyed yard work, planting flowers, and solving number find puzzles. Peggy will be dearly missed.

Cancer Resources for Elkhart County
23971 US Highway 33, Elkhart IN 46517
Tel: 1-574-875-5158
Email: info@elkhartcancer.org
Web: https://elkhartcancer.org/support-cancer-patients-donate/