Danny "Dan" Ray Bender, 74, of Wilmer, AL, passed away on November 16, 2023.
Danny Ray Bender, affectionately known as Dan, entered this world on October 6, 1949, in Louisiana, the son of Rankin Bender and Ruby McCurry. Dan's life was marked by his deep passion for the Alabama Crimson Tide. Dan never missed watching a game on TV. You knew where to find him any Saturday when the Tide played. He found immense joy, however, when he was able to attend games at Bryant-Denny Stadium, where he relished the vibrant atmosphere, and tailgating with fellow fans with the iconic Denny Chimes casting a familiar sound over the quad.
Beyond the thrill of football, Dan had a profound love for fly fishing and cherished the trips he took with his beloved wife, Peggy. These excursions often led them to quaint places, with Liberty Hall Bed and Breakfast holding a special place in Dan's heart. It was here, amidst its serene ambiance, that Dan found a peaceful retreat and created lasting memories with the welcoming hosts, Julia and Dudly Handly.
In his younger days, Dan's adventurous spirit was reflected in his enthusiasm for deer hunting and his fondness for horses. Over time, his interests evolved, but he never lost his zest for life. Dan and Peggy's impromptu road trips to visit friends and family were a testament to his connection with his family and his loving nature.
Dan's generosity knew no bounds. He had a unique way of expressing his affection through thoughtful gifts, often surprising loved ones with items they had casually admired. His career as a crane operator in the construction industry, and later as a safety man, was marked by dedication and a deep commitment to the well-being of his colleagues. But his joking nature often played out with pranks and tricks on fellow workers and friends . Dan's contributions to his field were significant, and he retired with a legacy of respect and admiration.
Dan's passing leaves an unfillable void in the hearts of those who knew him. His love, laughter, and the simple joys he found in life will be profoundly missed but forever cherished. Dan's legacy of kindness, passion, and the unwavering love for his family will continue to inspire and guide us.
Dan is preceded in death by his parents, Rankin "Benny" Bender and Ruby Williams; step-mother, Lois Bender; and brother, Tom Bender, and "Aunt" Virginia Nelson.
Dan leaves behind his loving wife of 22 years, Peggy Bender, children, Troy Bender, Dannie (Jimmy) Snodgrass, Brad Ledbetter (Dusty), Chris Ledbetter (Bonnie), Tommie Bender; grandchildren, Nicole, Brandon, Morgan, Zach, Jacob, Carson, Tommie Jr., Justin, Breanna, Zoey, Xander, Quinn; siblings, Benny Ray Bender (Janice), Mike Bender (Sonya), Patrica Slater (Malcolm), Deborah Dodge (Brian), Bruce Bender (Lori); Aunt Willene Clements, and several nieces, nephews, and cousins.
October 6, 1949 — November 16, 2023
Dan's family will receive friends on Sunday, November 19, at Mobile Memorial Gardens Funeral Home from 2:00pm until 4:00 pm. Funeral services will be held on Monday, November 20, at Mobile Memorial Gardens Funeral Home at 2:00 pm with Rev. Malcolm Slater officiating. Interment will take place at Mobile Memorial Gardens following the funeral services.
