Jerline Watson Bender

Jerline Watson Bender, 91, formerly of Lexington, passed away March 14, 2022, at the Aldersgate Retirement Community in Charlotte.

A graveside service, celebrating her life will be held at 2:00 pm, Saturday, March 19, 2022, at the Lexington City Cemetery with the Rev. Ray Nance Howell IV officiating. The family will see friends at 1:00 pm till 2:00 pm prior to the service at Davidson Funeral Home, Lexington, NC.

Mrs. Bender was born December 6, 1930, in Rowan County, to Lester Claude Watson and Lessie Hartsoe Watson. Jerline was a devoted member of the church when she was able to attend. She graduated with a bachelor’s degree from Appalachian State Teachers College, was a member of the Retired Teachers Association, and a life member of the NEA (National Educators Association). Was retired from the Lexington City School System having taught for 30 years of service. Her passion was her faith, church, family and especially teaching. Jerline was a loving wife, sister and aunt, who will be missed by all. In addition to her parents, she is preceded in death by her husband of 51 years, Edward M. “Bud” Bender Jr., who died Oct. 2008, her brother, Harold Watson, Howard Stuart, sisters, Edith Arthur, Kathy Funderburk, Pauline Irvin.

Left to cherish her memories are her sister, Alice Shepherd of Charlotte, a host of nieces and nephews, sister in-law Carolyn Watson.

Memorials may be made to; First Baptist Church, P O Box 436, Lexington, NC 27293.

Online condolences may be made at www.davidsonfuneralhome.net