DELHI - Betty H. Bender, 92, of Delhi, passed away on Thursday, morning, Nov. 29, 2018, at A.O. Fox Hospital in Oneonta, surrounded in love by her family.

Born on Aug. 25, 1926, in Addison, Pennsylvania, she was the daughter of the late Roy and Alma (Claus) Housel.

Betty was married to her husband of 70 years, Kenneth F. Bender, in 1948.

Mrs. Bender was a reading teacher for more than 30 years, first teaching in Grand Gorge and Roxbury and then spending the last 20 years of her teaching career at Delaware Academy, retiring in 1982.

Betty and Ken spent winters in Englewood, Florida, and summers in Delhi. They could often be found organizing social events for friends, including bridge parties, at which she excelled.

Betty was an avid golfer and presided over golf tournaments in Delhi and Florida to benefit breast cancer research and awareness. She also enjoyed skiing and outdoor activities with her family.

Betty was a voracious reader. Supporting reading and literacy was one of her life goals and she was honored with the dedication of a library in her name in Florida. She was tough competition when playing Words with Friends.

Betty's greatest joy was her family - she loved family gatherings, especially around the holidays; her last being Thanksgiving dinner at her son's house with four generations seated with her at one table.

Betty was predeceased by a brother, Paul Housel.

Besides her husband, Ken Bender of Delhi; Betty is survived by her children, Barbara LaCorte of Santa Barbara, California and Kenny Bender of Delhi; grandchildren, Dr. Lindsay LaCorte and her husband, Seth Smith of Hyannis, Massachusetts and Max Bender of Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania; and two great-grandchildren, Cameron and Jameson Smith.

A celebration of Betty's life and time of sharing will be held in the spring at The College Golf Course at Delhi.

Contributions in memory of Betty may be made to A. O. Fox Hospital in Oneonta.

Share condolences with the Bender family at www.hallandpeet.com.