Westerville Obituaries - September 21, 2025.
Brenten J. “J” Haver, 61, of Westerville, passed away suddenly of natural causes on Thursday, September 11. He is survived by his wife of nearly 40 years, Angie, daughters Jazmin (Eric) Pfeifer and Jade (Kevin) Green, and grandchildren Charleigh, Brody, and Asher Pfeifer. He is also survived by siblings Jason Haver, Joshua Basoukas, Christi (Shane) Geary, Nicole Tenebruso, and Todd Allen, along with many extended family members and friends. He was preceded in death by his parents, J Haver and Lin Wilson.
A lifelong man of faith, J served more than 20 years as an elder at Spring Road Church of Christ. He earned his degree in English Education from The Ohio State University, worked in aerospace manufacturing with companies such as Rockwell, McDonnell Douglas, and Boeing, and proudly served in the Air Force Reserve. Later, he built a career in telecom consulting before retiring.
He helped found Generations Performing Arts Center, where he devoted countless hours to supporting young dancers. Known for his generosity, hospitality, and devotion to family, J found joy in Florida trips, grandchildren’s activities, and time with lifelong friends.
Calling hours will be held on Sunday, September 21, from 1–4 p.m. at Spring Road Church of Christ, 74 S. Spring Rd., Westerville, where the funeral will be conducted on Monday, September 22, at 11 a.m., preceded by a short visitation from 10–10:30 a.m. Burial will follow at Blendon Cemetery. Memorial donations may be made to a Christian organization or church of choice.
Neva Louise Samuel, 66, of Westerville, passed away on September 11, 2025. She was preceded in death by her father, R. Lynn Jenkins; her husband, Paul D. Samuel; and her daughter, Aubrey L. Samuel.
She is survived by her mother, Vera Jenkins; her son, Grant T. Samuel (Haileigh Ross); her brother, Kevin Jenkins; her grandson, DJ Lockhart; and many brothers-in-law, sisters-in-law, nieces, and nephews.
Family and friends are invited to share condolences and memories with her loved ones, who will continue to carry her spirit forward with love.
Edna Slaybaugh, 95, of Westerville, passed away on Saturday, September 13, 2025, surrounded by family. Born in Toledo, she lived there for 68 years before relocating to Westerville. She retired as a school secretary with the Toledo Board of Education and later volunteered at Mt. Carmel St. Ann’s Hospital. She enjoyed traveling, reading, and working puzzles, and was devoted to her family.
She was preceded in death by her husband of 56 years, Richard Slaybaugh, Sr., and her son, Darrell Slaybaugh. She is survived by her children Richard (Jaclyn) Slaybaugh, Jr., Randall Slaybaugh, and Marsha Slaybaugh; daughter-in-law Karen Slaybaugh; grandchildren Joshua (Becky), Zachary (Leah), Colleen, and Rachel; and two great-grandsons.
Services will be private. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to The Philomatheon Society of the Blind, Canton, OH, or Beagles R Us Rescue, Columbia City, IN.
Donald E. Perry, 72, of Westerville, passed away September 16, 2025. He was born July 21, 1953, in Columbus to the late Michael and Mae Perry. He was also preceded in death by his brother, Daniel Perry.
He is survived by his children, Donald Perry II, Michael Perry, Joslyn (Matthew) Daniel, and Yvonne Perry; 12 grandchildren; and his brother, Darrell Logan.
Donald served as a National Veteran’s Service Officer for the Marine Corps League and was a Past Commandant of the Department of Ohio Marine Corps League.
He will be deeply missed by his family, friends, and fellow veterans.
Russell Ray Stalnaker, 72, passed away on Saturday, September 13, 2025, surrounded by his loving family. Born November 14, 1952, in Akron, he was raised in Cuyahoga Falls and earned a degree in Criminal Justice from the University of Akron.
In 1973, Russ met Susan, the love of his life, and they married in March 1976. He is survived by his wife of 49 years; daughters Angela Wilson (Jeff) and Alissa Snodgrass (Randy); grandchildren Taylor and Joshua Wilson and Carson and Addison Snodgrass; sister Sandy Wilson (Dan); brother Richard Stalnaker; sister-in-law and brother-in-law Patricia and Ronald Higbee; and many nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his parents, Earl and Erma (Stephens) Stalnaker.
Russ served with the Columbus Police Department for 30 years, retiring in 2011. In retirement, he and Susan enjoyed winters in Florida, traveling, and cruises. A devoted Ohio State football fan, he spent his life cheering on the Buckeyes. He was a member of Westerville Christian Church since 1987.
Tracy Tompkins, 52, of Westerville, passed away September 18, 2025, at The Ohio State University Hospital. She was a graduate of Westerville South High School and Hocking College, where she earned an associate degree.
She is survived by her husband of 32 years, Bill; daughter, Samantha; granddaughter, Ripley; mother, Christine Martin; aunt, Jean Bell; in-laws Sharon and John Williams; sister-in-law, Jackie Tompkins; brother-in-law, Rich Tompkins; nephews Daniel (Jessica) and Jacob Frum; great-nephew, Barrett Frum; and several cousins. She was preceded in death by her father, Henry Eldridge.
Dorothy Ann Dover, 90, of Westerville, passed away peacefully on September 17, 2025. She was born December 11, 1934, in Columbus and graduated from Linden McKinley High School. Dorothy worked as a seamstress for All-Rite Lettering, creating uniforms for local teams, and shared her talents at home making apparel for her family.
A devoted fan of the Ohio State Buckeyes and Cincinnati Reds, she was also known for her cooking, hospitality, and love of the holidays, especially Christmas, which she made magical for her family. Her home was always a place of warmth, food, and laughter.
Dorothy will be remembered for her kindness, generosity, and devotion to family, leaving behind traditions and memories that will be cherished for generations.
Friends may call at Moreland Funeral Home, 55 E. Schrock Road, Westerville.
Fred Allen Wilson, of Westerville, Ohio, and Louisa, Kentucky, passed away peacefully on Friday, September 19, 2025, at Brookdale Westerville. Though he lived in Westerville for 65 years, Louisa always remained “home.”
Born to Wayne and Emily Wilson in a Navy family, Fred grew up on bases across the United States, including Guantanamo Bay. After high school, he served as a radioman aboard the USS Taussig and USS Bridget. His love for his newborn daughter eventually brought him back home, where he and his wife, Doris (Meade), raised four daughters—Leah, Renee, Joy, and Karen. Just days before his passing, Fred and Doris celebrated their 70th wedding anniversary.
Fred worked for Columbus and Southern Ohio Electric (AEP) for 35 years, first as a lineman and later as a Systems Dispatcher, before retiring to pursue his many passions. A skilled ham radio operator, he supported emergency response efforts at local races and events. He loved music of all kinds, from bluegrass to Dixieland jazz, and with Doris, was an enthusiastic supporter of the Central Ohio Hot Jazz Band Society and the High Street Stompers.
He also had a deep love of history and genealogy, spending countless hours in county courthouses tracing family roots. Fred and Doris volunteered as docents at the Ohio Historical Village in its early years. A past Worshipful Master at Blendon Lodge #339, he also held dual membership with the Blue Lodge of Louisa. Fred was a proud member of the VFW and a designated Kentucky Colonel.
Fred will be remembered for his devotion to family, his service, his curiosity, and the joy he found in music, history, and community.
Your Westerville Week: A Guide to Events from September 15-21, 2025.
Monday, Sept 22
Westerville Board of Education — Regular Meeting — 6 pm.
Tummy Time for Infants & Caregivers — 11 am–noon, Westerville Public Library.
How to Lower Your Energy Bills — 6:30–7:30 pm, Westerville Public Library.
Tuesday, Sept 23
Buying Your First Car (Ages 12+) — 4:30–5:30 pm, Westerville Public Library with Junior Achievement.
Parks & Recreation Community Meeting — 6–8 pm, Westerville Community Center (350 N. Cleveland Ave.). Updates on Millstone Creek playground, EPA 319 Alkire Run, Highlands Park Aquatic Center shelter replacement, and the Everal Barn restoration plan.
Wednesday, Sept 24
Planning Commission — 6:30 pm, Westerville Justice Center (229 Huber Village Blvd.). Primary item: rooftop solar at the Westerville Community Center.
From the Bookshelves of the Anti-Saloon League — 7–8 pm, Westerville Public Library.
Friday, Sept 26
Mount Carmel St. Ann’s 4th Fridays — 6–9 pm, Uptown (State St.). Music: Westerville Jazz Orchestra on the Library lawn, 6–8 pm.
High school football — 7 pm: Westerville North @ Westerville South; Westerville Central @ Pickerington North.
Otterbein Homecoming & Family Weekend — campus events begin Friday and continue Saturday.
Uptown Ghost Story Tours — Opening Night — 7 pm & 9 pm, meet Walnut & Grove; 90 minutes; $25; ages 9+.
Saturday, Sept 27
Westerville Saturday Farmers Market — Final market of 2025 — 9 am–noon, COhatch/North High Brewing lot (240 S. State St.).
Hot Dogs at RedFrog Classics — 9 am–2 pm, 270 Broad St., Westerville. Classic car show and open house; breakfast/lunch; slot car track.
Uptown Ghost Story Tours — 7 pm & 9 pm, same details as Friday.
Otterbein Homecoming Saturday — Parade and campus activities; football vs. Muskingum at 2 pm; evening men’s soccer.
Saturday Night Live at Java Central — 7–9:30 pm, 20 S. State St.; Milo & Cherie Mannino with Paul Strawser.
Sunday, Sept 28
Run Like a Girl 5K/10K — 9 am start, Westerville Community Center (350 N. Cleveland Ave.).
Otterbein Women’s Soccer vs. Kenyon — 2 pm, Memorial Stadium.
Ongoing: Homework Help Center at the library (Mon–Thu, 4–7 pm). Uptown Ghost Story Tours continue Friday/Saturday nights through Nov 1.
Weekly Weather Outlook
Expect a wet start to the week with showers and thunderstorms likely from Monday through Thursday.
Monday will be warm and humid with a high near 83°F and storms expected mainly in the morning and late afternoon. Rain continues Monday night into Tuesday, with heavier downpours possible and highs cooling to the upper 70s.
Storm chances persist through Tuesday night and Wednesday, with more rain and thunder likely in the afternoons. By Thursday, rain remains likely, especially in the afternoon, keeping highs in the mid-70s. Rain chances gradually taper off Friday into Saturday, though scattered showers are still possible.
By Sunday, the weather finally turns a corner with mostly sunny skies and a high near 78°F.
The Westerville News is a reader-supported publication by Gary Gardiner, a lifelong journalist who believes hyper-local reporting is the future of news. This publication focuses exclusively on Westerville—its local news, influence on Central Ohio, and how surrounding areas shape the community.
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