Fern Louise Bender 77, formerly of Carbondale and Honesdale passed away Sunday, December 7, 2025 at Mountain City Nursing and Rehab Center, Hazle Township. She was preceded in death by her partner for over 40 years, Wilmer Howard Yost Jr.

Born June 14, 1948 in Birdsboro, PA she was a daughter of the late Howard and Jennie May (Kulp) McMullen.

Fern enjoyed playing cards, going to bingo, and was a big fan of Loretta Lynn, especially her song “Coal Miner’s Daughter.” She also loved George Jones, Elvis, and Sheryl Crow, especially her song “Picture.” Saturday morning WWF wrestling was a favorite of hers. As “Nanny,” she loved baking and cooking with the grandchildren and showing them around the kitchen.

She will be remembered as a strong women who faced a lot that would have broken anyone else, her dedication to her family and friends, and will be missed dearly by her family.

Fern is survived by five sons, Scott Bender, Patrick Bender, Wilmer Howard Bender, Brian Bender, and Wayne Bender; three daughters, Lori Bender, Tina Yost and Patricia Yost; several grandchildren and great-grandchildren; one brother Barry McMullen; as well as nieces and nephews.

She was preceded in death by a son, Christopher Bender; a daughter, Tammy Lynn Evans; three brothers, Pete McMullen, Howard (Sunny) McMullen, Eugene McMullen; and two sisters Mary Ellen Haines and Esther Stufflet.

A memorial service will be held on Saturday, January 3, 2026 at 11:00 AM at the Calkins Baptist Church, 527 Calkins Rd, Milanville, PA 18443 with Pastor Lane Jones officiating.

Arrangements are attended to by Arthur A Bryant Funeral Home, Honesdale.