Ashtabula, Ohio - Jeanne Marie Bento, 91, of Ashtabula, passed away peacefully, surrounded by her loving family, on Friday, February 20, 2026, at Ashtabula Regional Medical Center.

Born on September 21, 1934, in Ashtabula, she was the daughter of the late Anthony and Frances (Bleshoy) Zalimeni. A lifelong resident of the area, Jeanne graduated from Harbor High School in 1951 at just 16 years old. She always cherished attending her class reunions and reconnecting with lifelong friends. She went on to attend Kent State University, where she majored in English.

On August 30, 1958, Jeanne married the love of her life, Edward Bento. Together they shared 59 wonderful years of marriage until his passing in 2018, building a life rooted in faith, family, and community.

Jeanne was a devoted member of Our Lady of Peace Parish, Mother of Sorrows, where she joyfully sang in the choir for many years. Her faith was an important cornerstone of her life.

Her professional career reflected both dedication and versatility. Jeanne began working at CEI and later served in roles with several local real estate companies, Ashtabula General Hospital, Maxwell Steel, True Temper, and RMI. In 1984, she made history as the first female Ashtabula County Commissioner, serving three terms with distinction before her retirement. She was especially proud to have played a role in the founding of the Geneva Lodge.

A passionate advocate for her community, Jeanne generously volunteered countless hours to numerous organizations, including Right to Life, Birth Care of Ashtabula County, 4-H, the Board of MRDD, the Democratic Club, the CFA Convention Facilities Authority, the Anita Garibaldi Lodge—where she served as President—the Ashtabula County Ecodevelopment Board, and Catholic Charities. Her leadership and service left a lasting impact on Ashtabula County.

Jeanne found great joy in spending winters in Florida, golfing for many years in a Geneva league, traveling, attending concerts, and nurturing friendships both in Ashtabula and Florida. Above all else, she treasured time with her family. Her children, grandchildren, nieces, and nephews were the pride and joy of her life.

She is survived by her loving children, Frank Bento, Michael (Sarah) Bento, and Mary Margaret Bento; her sisters, Joyce Burdno, Janice Zalimeni, and Jennifer Dibley; her beloved grandchildren, Mary Catherine (Patrick) Schneider and Anne Marie (Jacob) Frank; as well as many cherished nieces, nephews, and dear friends.

In addition to her parents, Jeanne was preceded in death by her devoted husband, Edward.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Saturday, March 7, 2026, at OLOP, Mt. Carmel Church, 1200 E. 21st Street, Ashtabula, Ohio. Inurnment will follow at St. Joseph Cemetery.

Visitation will be held on Saturday, March 7, 2026, from 8:30 a.m. to 10:30 a.m. at Zaback-Williams-Ducro Funeral Home, 500 W. Prospect Road, Ashtabula.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made in Jeanne's name to Birth Care of Ashtabula County, 3703 Station Avenue, Ashtabula, Ohio 44004.

Zaback-Williams-Ducro Funeral Home is honored to serve the family. Online obituary and condolences may be found at www.ducro.com.