Elona Bender age 95, of Dalton, GA, passed away on Thursday, October 9, 2025, at Regency Park Dalton, GA. Elona was born on February 23, 1930, in East Germany. She arrived at Ellis Island on February 20, 1957. Then arrived in Dalton on February 23, 1957. She worked as a nurse in the newborn nursery at Hamilton Medical Center from August 15th, 1963, until her retirement on June 10th, 2010. During that time, she made countless friends that became her lifelong family. She was preceded in death by her husband, Paul Bender and her son, Bruce Bender. Survivors include her dearest friend, Leeta Stanley; grandchildren and great-grandchildren, Paul Bender and great-granddaughter, Halo Bender, Bruce and Marisol Bender and great-grandsons, Nicholas and Noah Bender. Nichole and Jamie Franks and great-grandsons, Sawyer and Jude Franks. A Celebration of Life will be Monday, October 13, 2025, at 1:00 P.M., Chapel of Dalton Funeral Home with Pastor Charlie Bridges officiating. Elona will be laid to rest beside her husband and son at West Hill Cemetery. Visitation will be Monday from noon until the service hour at Dalton Funeral Home. In lieu of flowers the family respectfully requests memorial contributions be made to Dalton Funeral Home for funeral expenses. Visit the online obituary www.dalton-funeral-home.com to post tributes and share memories. Arrangements have been entrusted to independently owned and operated Dalton Funeral Home, 620 S. Glenwood Avenue, Dalton, GA 30721.