It is with sorrow and gratitude that we mark the passing of Jonathan Childers of Kent, OH — sorrow at the loss, gratitude for the life.
These few paragraphs cannot hold a life, but they may carry a memory.
Quiet kindness echoes longest.
Jonathan Childers, 68, of Akron, passed away on Saturday, May 2, 2026 at UH Portage Medical Center. He was born in Ravenna on February 3, 1958 to the late Earl and Anita Childers. Jonathan was employed at Kent State University where he was a fire and safety inspector. He enjoyed fishing, bowling, golf, bocce and traveling and was a member of the Kent Elks Lodge #1377 and Ravenna Eagles. Jonathan was an avid Ohio State Football fan and loved spending time with his family and friends. He will be deeply missed by all who knew and loved him.He leaves his daughter Hayley Childers; sisters Sandy (Tom) Ward and Candice (Don) DeFluiter; nephew Jeff (Stacey) Ward and their daughters Kaitlyn and Emma; niece Kelly (Andy) Shenigo and their daughters Madison and Alivia; his significant other Diane Lewis; and his fur buddy Toby.In honoring his wishes, Jonathan will be cremated and a celebration of life will be held at a later date.In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made, in his name, to the American Cancer Society, 1690 W. Market St. Akron, OH 44317 or at www.cancer.org.Cremation Services in the care of Bissler & Sons Funeral Home and Crematory, 628 W. Main St. Kent, OH 44240.
