Frank Taylor Bender Jr.

He graduated from Jones Central High School in 1970, holding the distinction of valedictorian. He then went on to the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill and later graduated in 1974 with a bachelor's degree in business. Following college, he joined the family business, Bender-Burkot School Supply, later becoming the President and owner.

A diehard Carolina Tarheel, Frank loved going to football and basketball games to cheer them on. He loved his dog, "Tarheel," who was always by his side and went to work with him every day for more than 10 years. He loved to tell the story of the day he missed the Heels beat Florida State in football because his daughter, Wendy, got married that day.

Frank was a member of the Pollocksville Rotary Club and served as an elder and deacon at Pollocksville Presbyterian Church.

Above all, Frank loved family and celebrating the holidays. He will be missed very much and we all loved him so much. We know that he is in Heaven and will always be watching us. "God bless you, sweetheart."

He was preceded in death by his parents, Frank Taylor Bender, Sr. and Josephine Parker Bender and a sister, Mary Jo Burkot.

He leaves behind to cherish his memory his wife of 43 years, Gayle Whitehurst Bender; children, Wendy Byrd, Jennifer Golden, and Jeffery Byrd; sister, Barbara Fearing (Frank); brother-in-law, Jerry Burkot; grandchildren, Sophia Byrd, Bryce Golden, Lela Byrd, Reese Golden, Ella "Frankie" Byrd; great grandson, Sebastian Arkin; and many nieces and nephews.

Funeral service will be 11 a.m. on Tuesday, November 14, 2023 at Pollocksville Presbyterian Church. Burial will follow at the Pollocksville Cemetery.

Flowers are welcomed or memorial contributions may be made in his name to the Pollocksville Presbyterian Church.

Arrangements are in the care of Cotten Funeral Home & Crematory.