Prides Crossing - George William Bender, of Prides Crossing, died peacefully on October 17, 2020, with his family by his side.

He leaves behind his younger sister, Jeannette Bender Field of Beverly, daughters Kristin Bender Kyllingstad and Kim Bender Shea, of Prides Crossing and Beverly Farms, and sons-in-law Jerome Kyllingstad and Jay Shea. He was a devoted grandfather to Alexandra and Ainsley Kyllingstad and Harrison and Noah Shea. He also leaves behind his dear friend Polly Larson, of Beverly Farms. He was predeceased by his loving wife, Sally Bender. George will be deeply missed by his family, friends, and community-at-large.

Born in March of 1930, the first child of Harold and Elnora Bender, George was blessed to see history unfold before his eyes - fitting, for a man who dedicated both his academic and personal life to historical pursuits. A 1948 graduate of Governor's Academy in Byfield, George went on to graduate from Harvard University ('52) and Harvard Law School ('55). At Harvard he was an avid lacrosse player, football fan, and prankster. Following his graduation from law school, he went on to serve in the Counterintelligence Corps of the US Army. George later had a long and fulfilling career as a Trust Officer with Bank of Boston.

George was an enthusiastic collector: of his beloved early jazz records, New England art and antiques, stray cats, and stranded turtles. He was a fixture on the New England auction scene and a frequent donor to both the Beverly and Danvers historical societies. Sharing his collection and encyclopedic knowledge of local antiques was one of the greatest joys of his life, eclipsed only by his unwavering love for Harvard Crimson football. He was proud to have attended nearly every home game since 1948.

Services will be held privately at a later date, with arrangements by Campbell Funeral Home, 525 Cabot Street, Beverly. As a lifelong animal lover, donations may be made in George's memory to Northeast Animal Shelter, www.northeastanimalshelter.org. Information, directions, condolences at www.campbellfuneral.com.