Donna Jean Criss

Donna Jean Criss, age 80, of New Philadelphia, died Sunday, January 25, 2026, in her residence following a period of declining health.

Born on May 31, 1945, in Barnesville, Ohio, Donna was one of seven children born to the late Earnest and Betty Cramlet Stephens.

For a number of years Donna worked as a nurse’s aid and served as a waitress. She had many hobbies and interests that included playing bingo, cheering on her beloved Dallas Cowboys, traveling, camping, fishing and never turning down an opportunity to read a good romance novel.

She is survived by her children, Carla (Robert) Istenes of New Philadelphia, Shannon (Kirk) Norris of New Philadelphia, Darlene Williams of Bethesda, Ohio, and Betty Markovich of Piedmont, Ohio; 23 grandchildren, numerous great-grandchildren; brothers, Jim (Rose) Stephens, Bud Stephens, and Joe Stephens, and many nieces and nephews.

In addition to her parents, Donna was preceded in death by a son, John Dowdle; three sisters, Susie, Roe, and Kathy; her husbands, Carl Dowdle, Tim Jordan, and William Criss.

There are no public services scheduled at this time. The Linn-Hert-Geib Funeral Home & Crematory at New Philadelphia is handling arrangements.