Junior Lee Bender, a lifelong resident of Salem, Ohio, went home to be with the Lord on August 8, 2026, at the age of 71, with his daughters by his side. Born on October 4, 1954, to his loving mother, Mildred (Hill) Bender, and his late father, John Bender, Junior’s life was deeply rooted in the warmth of family, hard work, and community. He was a proud 1973 graduate of Salem High School and built a dedicated career as a machinist at Bliss and Quaker Manufacturing, where he worked until his well-earned retirement.

Junior was a man who knew how to enjoy the simple, good things in life. Whether he was knocking down pins at the bowling alley, gathering around the table for a lively game of cards, cheering on his beloved Cleveland Browns through every thrilling Sunday, or catching the roar of the engines on race day. Junior enjoyed going to his various clubs including the Slovak club, Amvets, American Legion, and VFW. Junior brought joy and enthusiasm to everything he did.

Above all else, Junior's heart belonged to his family. He leaves behind a legacy of love through his cherished mother, Mildred Bender; his loving children, Christine (Wesley) Cross, Jeremy Bender, and Jessica Carson; and his treasured grandchildren, Alexis and Travis Cross, Landen (Emely) Self, and Lindsay Self, as well as his precious great-grandchildren, Miylah and Lily. He will also be deeply missed by his siblings, John (Crystal) Bender, Rick (Renee) Bender, Sam (Ginger) Bender, Shirley (Bob) Irey, Bonnie Bender, and Tammy (Dale) Menning, along with numerous extended family members and dear friends whose lives he touched so deeply.

Family and friends are invited to gather and celebrate Junior’s wonderful life during visitation hours on Friday, August 14, 2026, from 4:00 PM to 6:00 PM at Arbaugh-Pearce-Greenisen & Sons Funeral & Cremation Services in Salem. A funeral service honoring his memory will follow immediately at 6:00 PM at the funeral home, with Reverend Francis Burkhart officiating. Though our hearts are heavy with his loss, we take comfort in the wonderful memories, the laughter, and the love Junior leaves behind to warm our spirits always.