Joyce Bender, 78, Bismarck, passed away peacefully on April 18, 2025 in Bismarck, surrounded by her loving family after a courageous battle with cancer. Mass of Christian burial will be held 10 a.m. Friday, April 25 at Church of the Ascension, 1825 S Third St, Bismarck. A recording of the Funeral Mass is available via this link: https://youtu.be/CymJsXhbZAw?si=Gg6K375RC4Ac0Iux

Visitation will be held from 5 to 6:30 p.m. Thursday at Eastgate Funeral Service, 2302 E Divide Ave, Bismarck. A rosary/vigil service will begin at 6:30 p.m.

Burial will be held at St. Mary’s Cemetery, Bismarck.

Joyce was born June 23, 1946 in Wishek, North Dakota. One of five children, Joyce grew up with a strong sense of family. She carried those values with her throughout her life, always putting loved ones first and cherishing every family get-together.

She brought joy and laughter to everyone she met, whether spending time with her family, having lunch with her friends, or enjoying one of her many shopping trips. She loved the simple things in life like playing cards, watching old westerns, and spending time with her husband, Harry. Not to say she didn’t also enjoy the finer things in life. Joyce sure loved shopping for jewelry, going to get her hair done, and spending an evening painting her nails better than the nail salon would have!

She loved being a devoted granny – a name she specifically wanted to be called. She loved all her grandkids more than anything. She was always willing to host birthday parties, pick the kids up from school, and let the kids have sleepovers at the house.

Joyce was one of the strongest fighters and always found a way to overcome whatever life threw at her. She leaves behind a legacy of love, kindness, and resilience. She will be deeply missed by all those who knew her.

Joyce is survived by her husband, Harry; son, Rick (Judee); daughter, Shellie (Randy); and her sister, Dianna (Tom). She is also survived by her six grandchildren, Jessica, Jonathan, Dakota, Tyler, Shandi and Elijah; and her many nieces and nephews.

She was preceded in death by her parents; and her brothers, Joel, Virge, and Clarence.