Bessie M. Bender

Mulberry - Bessie M. Bender, age 81, passed away on September 19, 2025, at Lakeland Hospice House in Lakeland. She was born on November 1, 1943, in Mulberry, FL. She worked as a School Bus Driver for Polk County. She enjoyed spending time with her grandchildren and family, watching game shows & soap operas and making Thanksgiving dressing. She was preceded in death by her son Jon Sullivan, 4 brothers and 4 sisters. She is survived by her sons Semar Tillman of Mulberry & Theodore Harris (Ena) of Bradenton, daughters Tangela Harris of Bradenton & Regina Ortega (Luis) of Sarasota, special nephew Dr. Frank Satchel of Mulberry, many grandchildren, many great grandchildren and nieces & nephews. Family will receive friends Friday, September 26, 2025, from 4:00 PM - 7:00 PM at Mt Zion AME Church. Funeral service will be held Saturday, September 27, 2025, at 10:00 AM at Wildwood Cemetery. Condolences to family at www.whiddenmcleanfuneralhome.com