Jesse Cleveland Bender Jr.

Jesse was the eldest of seven siblings, Curtis Bender of Birmingham, Alabama, Vernell Dubose (JL) of Hoover, Alabama, Burrell Bender (Caroline) of Phoenix Arizona, Samuel Bender of Bessemer, Alabama, Melvin Bender of Phoenix, Arizona, Tonja Faye Crenshaw (Reginald) of Bessmer, Alabama.

Jesse joined Ward Chapel A.M.E Church at an early age and was involved in various ministries within the church.

Jesse attended Charles F. Hard Elementary School and Jackson S. Abrams High School, where he excelled academically. He also played the trombone in the marching band. He remained an active member of his graduating class of 1967.

Jesse received a music scholarship and attended Tennessee State University in Nashville, TN.

Jesse served his country as a member of the United States Army where he received an honorable discharge.

While stationed in Indianapolis, IN, Jesse met the love of his life Martha McKinney. They were married on May 19, 1976. From this union there was four sons and a bonus daughter. Jesse loved Mrs. Bender and always made sure that he gave her whatever she asked for.

Jesse was a member of Philadelphia Apostolic Church. He loved bible class, working around the church, cooking for church events and helping the members.

Jesse retired from Citizens Gas where he was employed for 32 years.

Jesse was an avid chess player. He also loved Jazz, playing the guitar, cooking, grilling and working in his yard. He loved spending time with his grandchildren.

Jesse was preceded in death by both parents and son Brian McKinney Sr.

To cherish wonderful memories, he leaves to mourn his loss loving wife Martha, three sons Jimmy, Jesse Cleveland III, David (Tiffany), one daughter Wanda Kilpatrick (Matthew), granddaughters; Jalea and Autumn, grandsons; David Jr, Daylan, Nathaniel, four great-grandchildren and a host of nieces, nephews, relatives and friends.

A visitation for Jesse will be held Friday, February 14, 2025, from 10:00 AM to 12:00 PM at Crown Hill Funeral Home & Cemetery, 700 W. 38th St., Indianapolis, Indiana 46208, followed by a Celebration of Life at 12:00 PM.