Ada James Bender

Ada James Bender passed away wrapped closely in the arms of her Mom and Dad on Tuesday, September 22, 2026, at Golisano Children's Hospital of Buffalo.

Ada is the daughter of Joshua and Eliza (Vacanti) Bender. She was born on January 20, 2026, in Buffalo. Ada enjoyed snuggling, playing with her sister, Ruth, spending time with her family, and being outside. Her life may have been short, but it was nothing short of amazing. Her brightness filled a room and made a lasting impact on anyone that got to meet her. Through all of Ada's adversities, her sweet soul shined and didn't let anything get in her way. Her courage, strong will, and perseverance was admired by so many. Ada will be greatly missed but will always be greatly loved.

Ada is survived by her sister, Ruth Bender; grandparents, Michael and Peggy Vacanti of Alexander, Dee and Jim Luttrell of Batavia, and Karl and Becky Bender of Alexander; her aunts and uncles, Emmeline and Dustin Pratt of Batavia, Ben and Jared (Hobson) Vacanti of Batavia, Amanda and Nick Jennings of Stafford; her cousins, Maeve and Gavin Pratt, Everly and Kolton Jennings; and finally, her abundant amount of extended family.

To celebrate Ada's life, we kindly invite guests to wear pink or cheerful colors in lieu of traditional black.

Friends may call on Thursday, October 1, 2026, from 4 pm to 7 pm at the First Presbyterian Church of Batavia, 300 East Main Street, Batavia, where memorial services will also be held at 10 am Friday, October 2, 2026. In lieu of flowers, please consider memorials to The Children's Hospital of Buffalo Foundation, 1001 Main St., Floor 6, Buffalo, NY 14203 or online at https://www.ochbuffalo.org/foundation/donate/.