Rebecca "Becka" Anne Snider

Our beloved Rebecca (Becka) A. Bender Snider, aged 86, of Indianapolis, Indiana, peacefully transitioned from this life on August 29, 2025, surrounded by her devoted partner, family members, and dear friends. After receiving her stage four cancer diagnosis, she was asked if she had a bucket list. She replied, “No, life has been good. Now I’m content to sit at the kitchen table, watch the birds, work on crossword puzzles, enjoy friends, maintain my sense of humor, and “not be a pain in the ass.” True to her word, she did exactly that. Born on March 7, 1939, at Goshen Hospital, Becka grew up in Goshen, Indiana, with her parents, her older sister, and her younger twin brothers.

 She excelled academically, earning membership in both the National Honor Society and the Spanish National Honor Society. A music lover, she played the trumpet and the baritone horn in the school band and orchestra. However, what Becka valued most were friends and fun—priorities she carried throughout her life. At Miami University of Ohio, Becka majored in English, earning a Bachelor of Arts in 1961. She thrived both academically and socially earning membership in Alethenoi, an academic honor society for women, and the Kappa Kappa Gamma sorority. She later earned a Master of Science in Mental Health Counseling from Indiana University, Bloomington.

Becka dedicated her career to helping others, first as the Director of Admissions for the Indiana University School of Dentistry, and later as a psychotherapist. She began her clinical work at Midtown Community Mental Health Center, Fountain Square, primarily serving low-income clients with a variety of mental health conditions. She loved the diversity of the people with whom she worked, which she carried into her later role as a therapist at Indianapolis Psychiatric Associates. Before retiring, Becka served as an Assessment Specialist at IU Health Methodist.

Her fulfillment came from helping others heal. The respect and love she received from clients and colleagues were a testament to the difference she made. You couldn’t ask for a better friend. Becka’s kitchen table was a sanctuary where countless friends found comfort, laughter, wisdom, and practical advice. People from every walk of life gravitated toward her, knowing they would be met with unconditional warmth, kindness, humility, sharp intelligence, dry wit, respect, and a welcoming ear. She always called things as she saw them— never with judgment—and was often the first-person people turned to during difficult times. In her younger, healthier years, Becka was an avid swimmer who conquered the length of Lake Wawasee and was skilled in golf and tennis. She enjoyed reading mystery novels, cheering passionately for IU basketball and the Indiana Fever, and thriving in the company of friends. Travel, for her, was not just a hobby; it was essential. Becka’s love of life shone brightest at social gatherings. She delighted in being among friends gathered around a piano, sharing laughter, dancing, and joy. She especially loved costume parties and will always be remembered for her signature black boa. Becka loved having a good time.

Becka was preceded in death by her mother, Alice Boren Bender; her father, Dr. C.K. Bender; her brother, Dr. Robert Bender; and her sister, Marta Bender. She is survived by her beloved partner, Judi Morr, and dog, Sammy of Indianapolis; her brother, Dr. Bruce Bender (Sherry) of Indianapolis, and a multitude of lifelong friends. Becka’s legacy will endure in the hearts and minds of those who had the privilege of knowing her. 

Becka’s wonderful life will be celebrated on Friday, October 3, 2025, at Northminster Presbyterian Church, 1660 Kessler Blvd E Dr., Indianapolis, IN. of which she was a long time member. Visitation will be at 11:00 AM with the Service beginning at 12:00 PM followed by a Reception. In lieu of flowers, please consider donating in Becka’s honor to the Northminster Presbyterian Church or Wheeler Mission, 520 East Market Street, Indianapolis, IN.

For the complete obituary, please refer to the legacy.com website.