Constance Gillis Bender Age 92, passed away at home, surrounded by those who loved her, on March 29, 2017. Connie was born on January 11, 1925 in Haverhill, MA, the daughter of John H. and Anna M. Gillis. Following graduation from Haverhill High School in 1942, Connie left Haverhill for Washington, D.C. to support the war effort, working at the Pentagon. During 34 years of federal service she advanced from clerical work, and retired in 1977 as the Secretary and Confidential Assistant to the Assistant Secretary of Defense (Legislative Affairs). After moving to Tacoma, WA with her husband and daughter, Connie worked as a legal secretary at Weyerhaeuser Company until she retired in December 1995. Connie was known for her great sense of humor, her sharp wit, her love of grammar, and her generosity. She loved dogs, wine, and was especially fond of Mrs. See's and Dove bars. She was preceded in death by her husband, Paul C. Bender. Survivors include her daughter Andrea L. Hynes of Lakewood; son Andrew S. Hynes of Harrington, DE; and two grandsons. A memorial service will be held at the Oakhouse Restaurant, 8102 Zircon Dr. SW, Lakewood, WA, on April 22 at 1:30 p.m. In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to Franciscan Hospice and Palliative Care, Franciscan Foundation, P.O. Box 1502, Tacoma, WA 98401-1502, or the Washington Talking Book and Braille Library http://www.wtbbl.org/