Dorla Dean Bond

Dorla D. Bond was born on September 14, 1931, in Johnston City, Illinois, to Preston and Melba Mathews. She was one of three children, with two brothers, Charles Mathews and Lyn Mathews, who preceded her in death. Dorla resided in Hammond, Munster and Highland, Indiana, for many years before eventually moving to Glendale, Arizona.

Dorla met her future husband, Claude H. Bond, at Irving Elementary School. Their friendship blossomed into love, and they began dating when they were 16 years old while attending high school. On May 4, 1951, Dorla and Claude were married, beginning a devoted marriage and a life together filled with family and cherished memories.

Together, Dorla and Claude had three children: Claudia Worley; Carolyn (Dan) Evilsizor; and Daniel (Shirley) Bond.

Dorla was blessed with nine grandchildren: Douglas, Nathan, Caryn (Colwyn), Amy (Mike), Katy, Timothy (Cyndi), Rebecca, Danny Jr. (Jordan), and Victoria (Daniel). They lovingly referred to her as “Momo.”

Her family continued to grow with 18 great-grandchildren: Bailey (Ernesto), Malachi, Micah (Hunter), Makenna, Noah, Davina, Annabelle, Adalie, Naomi, Ruth, Abigail, Sophie (Evan), Easton, Anna, Olivia, Addison, Anthony (Nicole), and Preston.

Dorla was blessed with two great-great-grandchildren, Madelynn and Levi, and was eagerly anticipating the arrival of her third great-great-grandchild, Ezra.

Dorla had a lifelong love of music. Her musical journey began in high school, where she played the alto saxophone. She continued to share her love of music through the church choir and by participating in musicals alongside Claude. Music remained a meaningful part of her life and brought her many special memories.

Dorla was also deeply devoted to her church and remained active in church life throughout the years. She was a member of Hammond First Church of the Nazarene, Highland Church of the Nazarene, and later, Glendale First Church of the Nazarene. She served in many areas of ministry, including Sunday School teacher and through Compassionate Ministries.

Alongside Claude, Dorla devoted herself to helping others in practical and compassionate ways. They regularly took groceries to those in need, visited people in the hospital, and spent time with shut-ins. Her willingness to serve and care for others touched many lives.

At Glendale First Church of the Nazarene, Dorla became affectionately known as the “Mother of Missions.” In recognition of her many years of dedicated service, she received the Distinguished Service Award. This honor reflected the love, compassion, and commitment she gave so generously to her church and to those around her.

And, of course, no remembrance of Dorla would be complete without mentioning her famous lemon meringue pie. She delighted family, friends, and fellow church members by sharing her pies at church fellowship dinners and family gatherings. Her lemon meringue pie became one of those special traditions that brought people together and created sweet memories that will be cherished for years to come.

Dorla also loved to craft. She was a talented painter and needlepoint artist who enjoyed creating beautiful and meaningful pieces for her family and friends. Among her many handmade creations were ornaments, tissue boxes, and clay-pot birdhouses. Through her creativity and generosity, she gave others special gifts that reflected the love and care she put into everything she made.

Shortly after Claude passed away, Dorla was diagnosed with dementia. Even during this difficult chapter of her life, she never lost her wonderful sense of humor. She continued to bring laughter, joy, and fun to those around her at Glencroft Friendship House. Her ability to find moments of happiness and share them with others was a beautiful reflection of the spirit she carried throughout her life.

Dorla went home to be with her Lord and Savior on August 20, 2026, surrounded by her loving family. She leaves behind a legacy of faith, devotion, laughter, music, service, and above all, love. Her memory will live on in the hearts of her family, friends, church family, and all those whose lives she touched.

Memorial Service

A memorial service celebrating Dorla’s life will be held on September 26, 2026, staring at 10AM at Chapel of the Chimes.