John Lewis Bender

John Lewis Bender

May 7th, 1966 - February 19th, 2026

In the early hours of the morning on Thursday, February 19th, John Lewis Bender, 59, rejoiced in the arms of Christ after a valorous battle with cancer.

John was an incredibly hard-worker. He gave everything his all in such a meticulous manner that everyone would ask if he was an engineer. He was a loving father to three girls, whom he would do anything for, and a devoted husband to Judy for 34 years.

He was a drummer, handyman, woodworker and perfectionist who could do anything he set out to do. John dedicated his life to Jesus Christ. He played his drums for the Lord in his several Christian rock groups, as well as the church, providing the heartbeat for worship.

John is preceded in death by his mother, Carmelita “Carmie” Bender, father, Jerry Bender, step-mother, Bonnie Bender, and brothers, Tim and Randy Bender.

He is survived by his wife, Judy Bender, and three daughters, Christa (Caleb) Tomplait, Tiffany Bender, and Sharkayla Bender (Michael Weber).

Special thanks to John’s cousin, Ron Bender, for being there for him, to Judy, his wife, for becoming his caretaker, and to all the friends and family who were there for him in his time of need.

Visitation will be held on Tuesday, February 24th from 4-6pm at Adams Mason Funeral Home (791 E Market St., Akron, OH). Funeral services will also be held on Wednesday, February 25th at 10am. Interment to follow at Northlawn Memorial Gardens.

"Yet what we suffer now is nothing compared to the glory he will reveal to us later." Romans 8:18 

Arrangements entrusted to Adams Mason Funeral Home (330) 535-9186