Kelli R. Bender

Kelli R. Bender, a beloved daughter, sister, aunt, and friend, passed away peacefully on January 27, 2025, at the hospital in St. Joseph, Missouri, following a brief illness. She was 54 years old.

Born on November 1, 1970, in St. Joseph, Missouri, Kelli was the youngest of three daughters born to Carl Nelson and Georgie M. (Pendleton) Bender. She grew up in the New Point-Oregon area and was a proud graduate of South Holt High School, Class of 1989. She was a member of the New Point Christian Church, where she found faith, fellowship, and a sense of belonging.

Throughout her life, Kelli dedicated herself to caring for others. She worked as a desk clerk at the former Ramada Inn in St. Joseph and later for American Family Insurance. In recent years, she found deep fulfillment as a caregiver, offering kindness and support to those in need.

Kelli will be remembered for her warm heart, generous spirit, and the love she poured into her family and friends. She had a gift for making people feel special and was known for her delicious home cooking, which brought joy to many. She also had a passion for traveling, embracing new experiences and creating cherished memories wherever she went.

She was preceded in death by her father, Carl Nelson Bender. She is survived by her loving mother, Georgie Bender of New Point; her devoted sisters, Ann (Ryan) Radley of Oregon, Missouri, and Carla Bender of Kansas City, Missouri; cherished nephews, Owen (Amy) Bender, Cameron (McKinsie) Radley, and Carson Bender; and adored great-nieces and nephew, Hallie and Riley Bender and Colt Radley.

Kelli’s life was a testament to love and kindness, and she will be deeply missed by all who had the privilege of knowing her.

Services will be held at 10:30 a.m. on Tuesday, February 4, 2025, at New Point Christian Church. Visitation for family and friends will take place from 6:00 to 8:00 p.m. on Monday, February 3, 2025, at Chamberlain Funeral Home in Oregon, Missouri. She will be laid to rest at Cowan Cemetery in New Point, Missouri.

In honor of Kelli’s memory, contributions may be made to the New Point Christian Church or Cowan Cemetery.