Sondra S. O'Donnell

SALEM - Sondra Santa O'Donnell, aged 70, of Salem, passed away unexpectedly on March 19, 2024, she was surrounded by her family and friends at the Salem Regional Medical Center.

Born July 10, 1953, in Brooklyn, New York, she was the daughter of the late Lillian and Sonny Croce. Sondra was a graduate of New Utrecht High School in Brooklyn, New York in 1970. Sondra continued her education and obtained an associate degree at a business college in Manhattan. Sondra began her career in advertising at J Walter Thompson in Manhattan and furthered her career by working on Wall Street.

In 1983, Sondra met her beloved husband Terence, they later married in 1985 in Staten Island, N.Y. They moved to Middletown, New Jersey, and later moved their family to Salem, Ohio in 1989, where they have been residents ever since.

Sondra immersed herself into Salem and the surrounding communities through service and truly walking in the work of Christ. Sondra proudly worked as an administrative assistant until retirement at the school of nursing at Kent State University, Salem Campus. Sondra made lifelong connections with students and faculty. She worked selflessly and was highly admired and known on campus for being another mother and friend to all.

Sondra lovingly dedicated her time to numerous community organizations, where she spread her gifts of compassion, care and with anyone in need. She dedicated her life to serving others and was an advocate for the underserved. She was an active volunteer at The Fleming House, Nina's Closet and Americore. She served as co-president of the Kiwanis, a member of the board of The Brightside Project, as well as serving on the review board of the Dustin Huffman Memorial Scholarship. She was a devoted member of Renew, a faith-based sisterhood for 24 years. Sondra was a facilitator for "Getting Ahead" and the "Bridges out of Poverty" programs.

No task was too small for Sondra. Sondra's acts of kindness, generosity and compassion touched many lives and made everyone she came in contact with feel special and loved. There were numerous occasions where Sondra gave her time, love and support to countless others, whether they be a stranger or a friend.

Sondra's greatest endeavor was being a wife, mother and Gigi, on top of her selfless generosity to others. Sondra is survived by her husband, Terence O'Donnell, whom she married May 25, 1985; children, Lauren DeMarco of Salem, Kerri (Joshua) Ackler of Salem, Ryan (Kaitlyn) O'Donnell of Salem; grandchildren, Liliana and Vito DeMarco, Brynlee O'Donnell, Julian and Bria Ackler; as well as many close family members, nieces, nephews, cousins and friends.

Sondra found a great passion and joy for cooking, as well as sharing recipes with others. She enjoyed watching Hallmark, True Crime and various television dramas. Her greatest joy was spending time with her grandchildren and gift giving. She loved a great deal and a good cup of coffee. She will be sorely missed and a guardian angel to all.

Visitation will take place from 5-8 p.m., Friday, March 22, 2024 at Stark Memorial Funeral Home. A Mass will begin at 12:30 p.m., Saturday, March 23, 2024 at St. Paul Catholic Church.

If unable to attend, join our complimentary "Hugs from Home" program at www.starkmemorial.com/hugs-from-home.

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