It is with heavy hearts that we announce the peaceful passing of Lucille (Lucy) Élaine Bender on February 2, 2026, at the age of 67.
She is survived by her beloved husband, Alan Nixon, and her two Chow Chows, Cole and Fafi, her pride and joy and constant companions. She was predeceased by her parents, Edmée (née Boisvenue) Bender and Desmond Bender. Lucy is remembered by her dear friends Claudine, Bonnie, Denise, Cindy, and Caity, and by the many friends she cherished, together with those who worked alongside her.
Many will remember Lucy as Madam Bender, presiding over matters as the Regional Assessment Officer of the Ontario Superior Court of Justice in Ottawa and surrounding areas with care, fairness, and resolve. She was a steady and principled presence, deeply committed to her work. She was a voice for those in need, helping so many find their way with determination and compassion. Lucy was known for her sharp wit, tenacity, and unmistakable sense of humour. We have lost a bright shining light.
Lucy was deeply concerned with the welfare of dogs and as such spent several years as the Chairperson of the Disciplinary Committee of the Canadian Kennel Club working to ensure their ethical treatment.
A celebration of Lucy’s life will be held on Saturday, February 21, 2026, from 1:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m. at Beechwood Funeral, Cemetery and Cremation Service, 280, Beechwood Avenue, Ottawa.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to CNIB, in support of guide dogs in training, a cause that reflects Lucy’s lifelong commitment to independence, dignity, and care for others.
Her legacy lives on in the lives she touched, the barriers she removed, and the love she gave so freely. She will be deeply missed and forever remembered.
Lucy sera dans le coeur de ses collègues pour toujours. Elles auront bénéficié de son optimisme, de sa force, de ses conseils et de son humour.
Digital Guestbook
Gilles Marleau
Roger R. Presseault
It is with a heavy heart that I have learned of the passing of one terrific human being. Lucy and I worked together at the Superior Court of Justice for several years and she was always ready and willing to assist individuals who would call upon her. To her family, please accept my most sincere condolences. To you Lucy, thank you for being part of my life and for making it a better place. Rest in peace my friend.
Norma Barker
My condolences to Lucy’s family and friends. I remember her beautiful smile and great laugh.
Wenda Hodsdon
I was saddened to get the news about Lucy's passing. We worked for several years together for the Ontario Government in services for children and youth. Lucy's passion for skiing was always evident but of course overshadowed by her passion for her beloved dogs. My sympathy to you, Alan.
Jocelyn Ballantyne
Alan, I am so terribly sorry for your loss. There isn’t much I can say that you don’t already know about her, she was one of the most incredible people I’ve met.
I was Madam Bender’s assessment coordinator at the Superior court. I have so many fond memories of her but her genuine soul and infectious smile will forever be remembered. I spent many hours (often not work related) in her office just chatting. I recall one time I commented on a red bag she had, how I thought it was incredibly cute. She then proceeded to dump out all of its contents onto the floor and offer me the bag. She really had the greatest sense of humour and was effortlessly selfless.
Lucy’s adoration of chow chows was something I’ve never seen before. I recall one day walking into her office and she had a pair of leggings with chows on them. She proceeded to point out the chows on her Apple Watch, the background of her phone (and not to mentioned all the chow decoration).
She loved so deeply - her colleagues, friends, dogs and her husband. I dedicate my success in law school to her - she believed in me when no one else did, she wrote my letter of recommendation & she always checked in throughout the whole process. I will honour her throughout all of my career, remembering what an incredible mentor she was.
My heart is so broken. I will hold her memory close to my heart forever.
Jocelyn Ballantyne
Alan, I am so terribly sorry for your loss. There isn’t much I can say that you don’t already know about her, she was one of the most incredible people I’ve met.
I was Madam Bender’s assessment coordinator at the Superior court. I have so many fond memories of her but her genuine soul and infectious smile will forever be remembered. I spent many hours (often not work related) in her office just chatting. I recall one time I commented on a red bag she had, how I thought it was incredibly cute. She then proceeded to dump out all of its contents onto the floor and offer me the bag. She really had the greatest sense of humour and was effortlessly selfless.
Lucy’s adoration of chow chows was something I’ve never seen before. I recall one day walking into her office and she had a pair of leggings with chows on them. She proceeded to point out the chows on her Apple Watch, the background of her phone (and not to mentioned all the chow decoration).
She loved so deeply - her colleagues, friends, dogs and her husband. I dedicate my success in law school to her - she believed in me when no one else did, she wrote my letter of recommendation & she always checked in throughout the whole process. I will honour her throughout all of my career, remembering what an incredible mentor she was.
My heart is so broken. I will hold her memory close to my heart forever.
Sincères condoléances Alan. Bon courage en ces jours difficiles.