Donna Renee Bender

Donna Renee Bender, 71, of Salem, Ohio, passed away peacefully on August 2nd, 2026 at Auburn Skilled Nursing, surrounded by the family who loved her beyond measure.

Born on February 16, 1955, in Canton, Ohio, Donna was the cherished daughter of the late William and Mary Bates.

Donna grew up in East Canton, Ohio, a place that always held a special place in her heart. She treasured the lifelong friendships she made there and often spoke fondly of the close-knit neighborhood where she was raised. Some of her happiest childhood memories were made during summers spent in West Virginia, a place she considered one of the most beautiful on earth. She loved sharing stories of the adventures she had with her cousins, Judy and Sharon, and later enjoyed taking her own children and grandchildren there so they could experience the beauty and joy that meant so much to her.

As a young woman, Donna was introduced to the love of her life, David Bender, by her sister, Brenda, who was certain they would make the perfect match. She was right. Donna and David shared 52 wonderful years of marriage built on love, devotion, and unwavering commitment.

A few years after they were married, they moved with their two-year-old daughter, Melissa, to Salem, Ohio, where they would raise their three children and build a life filled with love, laughter, and faith. It was there that Donna discovered her passion for serving others. Her compassion for the elderly led her to a rewarding 20-year career as an Activities Coordinator. With her warm personality, infectious sense of humor, and beautiful singing voice, she brought joy to countless residents, who loved her dearly.

Music was one of Donna’s greatest gifts. She sang whenever she had the opportunity, but nowhere did her voice shine brighter than at Abundant Life Fellowship. She faithfully served in the choir, on the Praise & Worship team, and during special services. Through music, Donna expressed her deep love for the Lord, whom she served faithfully with all her heart.

Above all else, Donna’s greatest joy was her family. She was a devoted wife, a loving mother, and an extraordinary grandmother. While she treasured every moment of motherhood, her grandchildren brought her immeasurable happiness. She loved each of them unconditionally, celebrated their accomplishments, and was incredibly proud of the people they were becoming. Her love, encouragement, and gentle spirit will remain with them always.

Donna is survived by her beloved husband of 52 years, David Bender; her children, Melissa (Brad) Willis, Amy (Steve) Kidder, and Timothy (Lisa) Bender; her sister, Brenda (Richard) Fonte; her brother, Gregory (Sandy) Bates; and her cherished grandchildren, Addie Willis (Brendan Cole), Callie Willis, Gabriel Bender, Benjamin Bender, Dominic Lerario, William Kidder, and Natalie Kidder.

In addition to her parents, Donna was preceded in death by her brother and wife, Ronald (Connie) Bates.

A Celebration of Life honoring Donna will be held on September 12, 2026 at Abundant Life Fellowship at 12 noon.

Arrangements have been entrusted to Weber Funeral Home, 340 E. Lincoln Way, Lisbon, Ohio.

Donna will be remembered for her joyful heart, unwavering faith, beautiful voice, compassionate spirit, and the unconditional love she gave so freely to everyone blessed to know her. Though she will be deeply missed, her legacy of love will live on through her family and all those whose lives she touched.

The Family would also to thank Auburn Skilled Nursing and all the staff there for their wonderful love and care. They gave absolutely wonderful care to Donna over the 15 months that she was there. You are all such a blessing.