Dr. Joyce Elaine Bender

Joyce Elaine Bender was born on May 28, 1941, in Alfalfa County, to Earl and Verna Jackson at the Cherokee Masonic Hospital in Cherokee, Oklahoma. She passed away peacefully on February 17, 2026 at the age of 84.

Joyce was a proud graduate of Burlington High School in Burlington, Oklahoma, class of 1959, where she served as salutatorian and graduated at the top of her class. On July 24, 1960, she married the love of her life, Royce Bender, in a ceremony at the Christian Church in Burlington. Their partnership spanned decades, rooted in shared values, family, and support for education in northwest Oklahoma.

To their marriage, two sons, Todd and Lee, were born.

A dedicated educator, Joyce pursued higher education with determination. She earned her bachelor's degree from Northwestern Oklahoma State University (NWOSU) in Alva, where she and Royce made their home and became longtime supporters of the NWOSU Foundation.

Joyce started her teaching career in South Haven, Kansas, before transferring to Cherokee, Oklahoma. She taught English there while raising her sons until 1987.

Later in her career, Joyce achieved her PhD in English Education from Oklahoma State University (OSU) in Stillwater. This accomplishment reflected her passion for literature, teaching, and empowering students.

Joyce served as a Professor of English at Oklahoma Panhandle State University (OPSU) in Goodwell, Oklahoma, from 1993 to 2003 (earning emerita status upon retirement). She also taught at NWOSU and Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University. Her work influenced countless students through her expertise in English and her commitment to academic excellence.

Joyce and Royce were generous community members and donors, frequently recognized in NWOSU Foundation reports for their philanthropy. They enjoyed a quiet life in Alva, cherishing family, faith, and the friendships built over many years in the region.

Joyce is survived by her husband, Royce Bender, of Alva; her two sons, Todd Bender of Cherokee, Oklahoma, and Lee and Lisa Bender of Spearfish, South Dakota; and one granddaughter, Shelby Bender, of Colorado Springs, Colorado.