Larry Sherard Bender

Larry Sherard Bender, a compassionate, kind-hearted, and hard-working individual, passed away on August 11, 2025, at the age of 79. Born on February 17, 1946, in Kansas City, Missouri, Larry spent his later years residing in Bourne, Massachusetts, though he was a long-time resident of Lee’s Summit, Missouri.

Larry attended Southern Methodist University from 1964 to 1968, where he graduated and managed the basketball team. His entrepreneurial spirit led him to launch and manage various businesses, including those in building, development, real estate, mortgage banking, screen printing, and BBQ restaurants. He had a passion for golf, fishing, BBQ, and cooking, and he cherished his early years visiting his grandparents' lake house in Minnesota during the summers. Later in life, he found a love for golf, which he enjoyed playing at Hillcrest Country Club.

He is survived by his wife, Patricia O'Neil Bender, his sons Sean and Christian, daughter-in-law Karen, and grandsons Evin, Miles, Finley, and Owen. He is also survived by his cousins Jerry Bender of Nebraska City and Sherry Bender of Milford, Nebraska. Larry was preceded in death by his grandparents, Earnest and Kay Sherard, and his parents, Dorothy and Jesse Bender.

With a genuine heart and an outgoing personality, Larry effortlessly forged connections, making everyone he met feel like an instant friend.

A Celebration of Life service will be held from 1 to 3 p.m. on Wednesday, August 20, 2025, at Nickerson-Bourne Funeral Home, located at 40 MacArthur Blvd., Bourne, MA.

In lieu of flowers please consider donating in Larry’s name to: The American Kidney fund at https://give.kidneyfund.org/