Donald R. Cleary

Donald R. Cleary, 71, of New London, died on Thursday, February 5, 2026, at the Cleveland Clinic Avon Hospital surrounded by family. Donald was born on September 19, 1954 in Elyria, OH, the son of the late Robert and Hazel (Hamilton) Cleary.

A 1973 graduate of Norwalk High School, Donald worked in general maintenance until he became a business owner and operated his own company, DC Home Details, for the past 10 years. As his son, Asher stated “he was a hard worker”. Donald and his family are devoted members of the Bethel Chapel in Savannah. He enjoyed playing the guitar, drums, feeding the birds and photography. He loved his family and enjoyed sharing that love with them.

Donald is survived by his wife, Jill A. (Wentink) Cleary; children, Heath (Courtney) Cleary of Monroeville, Joel (Debbie Herrington) Cleary of New London, Amber (Matt) Brotzki of Monroeville and Asher Cleary at home; 9 grandchildren, McKenna (Derek), Noah (Kelli), Isaac (Haleigh), Cooper, Christopher, Averi (Grant), Landon, Lilly and Spencer; two great-grandchildren, Josee and Claire; siblings, Linda (Wilmer) White and Joyce (Dan) Pittman. In addition to his parents, Donald was preceded in death by four siblings.

Visitation will be held on Sunday, February 15, 2026, from 4:00 – 6:00 p.m. at the Bethel Chapel, 575 US 250, Savannah, OH 44874, where his Funeral Service will be held on Monday, February 16, beginning at 11:00 a.m. Donald will be interred at the Day Cemetery in New London Township. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be directed to the Fostering Ministries through Bethel Chapel or directed to the family as they plan to purchase a tree in his honor for placement at their family home. Online condolences may be shared by visiting www.eastmanfuneralhome.com.