Denise Bender

72, of Indianapolis, passed away peacefully surrounded by her family after a brief battle with cancer on December 24th, 2025. Niece, as she was lovingly referred to by her brothers and sisters, was so many things to so many people. She was a beloved wife, a devoted mother, a Mamaw to some of her grandkids and a Grandma to others, a GiGi to her great grand kids and a loyal friend to so very many people. Denise worked in cosmetology as a talented hairstylist for over 54 years. She always said doing hair was her profession but working with the elderly was her vocation. Denise was passionate about her faith and had worked in many ministries in her lifetime. She loved her family. Camping at the family campground was one of her favorite things to do. Sharing laughs and stories. She is preceded in death by her parents Ervan (Gene) and Alice Gwaltney and multiple brothers and sisters in law. Denise is survived by her beloved husband Anthony Bender; her children Missy (Jeff) Peterson, Jason Bender, and Nathan (Nikki) Bender; sisters Glenda Bryan and Karen (Glenn) Andrew; brothers Galen (Donna) Gwaltney, Jay (Kathy) Gwaltney, and David (Dody) Gwaltney; 9 grandchildren: Bryce (Jordyn) Peterson, Justus (Emalie Broyles) Peterson, Grace (Brandon Barker), Ethan (Madison) Bender, Tyler Bender, Brennan Heath, Addison Bender, David Bender and Riley Schlenz; and 9 great grandchildren: Madelynn, Mackenzie, Michalia, Mia, Saylor, Lotti, August, Ivy and Sierra. Visitation will be on Wednesday, December 31st from 11 am to 1 pm at Matthews Mortuary, Brownsburg, with funeral services to follow at 1 pm.