Merlene R. Staneart-Bentert

Merlene Rosalee Staneart-Bentert, 94, of New Philadelphia, Ohio, passed away on Monday, October 7, 2024, at the Ohio’s Hospice LifeCare Truman House in New Philadelphia, after several months of declining health. Born January 31, 1930 in Meadow Bridge, West Virginia, she was a daughter of the late Levi Prince Fitzwater and Alta Faye (Shuck) Fitzwater.

A Tuscarawas County resident since 1953, Merlene had worked in the restaurant at the former Buckeye Hotel as a waitress and later as a manager. She then was employed by the State Liquor Stores in Uhrichsville, Bolivar, and Dover until her retirement. In retirement, she spent many happy hours gardening and reading.

Merlene was the loving mother of Rose (Chuck) Barrett, Debra (companion, David Miles) Hart, Denise “Dee” (Jack) Legg, Andy (Amy) Staneart, Claudia Staneart, and Richard “Butch” Staneart – all of whom survive her, along with 14 grandchildren, 25 great-grandchildren, and 7 great-great-grandchildren. She is also survived by her sister, Jenevie Bennett, and numerous nieces and nephews. In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her former husband, David Andrew Staneart, 6 brothers, and 3 sisters.

In keeping with Merlene’s wishes, she will be interred beside her late husband, Ed Fawcett, in Gnadenhutten-Clay Union Cemetery in Gnadenhutten, following a private family service. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions honoring her memory may be made to Ohio’s Hospice Foundation, 716 Commercial Ave. S.W., New Philadelphia, OH  44663.