Natalie S. Bender, 87, of Leawood, Kansas, passed away on November 20, 2023 at her home. She was preceded in death by her husband, Gilbert (Gib) and her grandson, Zachery Blochlinger. She is survived by three children, Heidi Langford (David) of Leawood, KS, Brad Snyder (Liz) of Memphis, TN, and Kristen Blochlinger (Dennis) of Liberty, MO; as well as 7 grandchildren and 8 great-grandchildren. The family wishes to express their gratitude to Toni Friend for the loving care she provided to Natalie.
Natalie was born and raised in Youngstown, Ohio where she developed a love for the piano, and others recognized her gifting as she accompanied many choirs and soloists. She also excelled in the organ and played for several large churches in various cities. Natalie was a hard worker and a valued employee as she worked as a secretary/administrative assistant and real estate agent. She enjoyed time with family and friends, who often found her sitting in her favorite chair with a Bible open on her lap as she read her favorite passages.
Funeral services will be held at Nall Avenue Baptist Church, 6701 Nall Avenue, Prairie Village, Kansas on Friday, December 1, with visitation at 10:00 a.m. and the service following at 11:00 a.m. The service may also be viewed live, as well as recorded, on the Nall Avenue Baptist Church YouTube channel. A private burial will be held at Leavenworth National Cemetery.
In lieu of flowers, a memorial gift may be made to the American Bible Society, 101 North Independence Mall East FL8, Philadelphia, PA 19106-2155 or AmericanBible.org.
Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be shared at www.mcgilleyhoge.com for the Bender family.