Cleona Lee Dhaeze, 88, of South Bend, Indiana, passed away peacefully on March 6, 2025. Born on January 6, 1937, in South Bend to William H. and Mildred Wells, Cleona was a woman whose life was marked by love, compassion, and a deep connection to the natural world around her. From a young age, she demonstrated an innate ability to bring warmth and comfort to those around her. Her family and friends will always remember her as a gentle soul with a heart of gold.

Cleona grew up surrounded by the beauty of South Bend, and from early childhood, she developed a love for nature. Whether it was tending to the flowers in her garden or walking through the woods, she found solace and peace in the natural world. As an adult, she carried that passion for the outdoors with her and found joy in taking care of her yard, where she lovingly planted flowers, trimmed trees, and nurtured the earth with the same care she showed her family.

In 1970, Cleona married Ronald L. Dhaeze, the love of her life, and together they built a home filled with warmth, laughter, and love. She was a devoted wife, always by Ronald's side with unwavering support and kindness. Cleona's caring nature extended not only to her husband but also to everyone around her. Her easy-going attitude, positive outlook, and ability to see the good in others made her beloved by all who had the pleasure of knowing her. She never had a bad word to say about anyone and was always ready to lend a helping hand to anyone in need, whether family, friend, or neighbor.

Cleona's greatest joy in life was her family. As a mother, she was a rock—steady, loving, and always present. Her son, John, and her daughter-in-law, Vickie, were a central part of her life, and she poured all her love into their family. Cleona was a doting grandmother to her six grandchildren: Amanda (Tom), Allan (India), Kelley (Chip), Ashley, Dustin (Mallory), and Lindsay. Each grandchild held a special place in her heart, and she cherished the moments spent with them, always offering guidance, love, and a listening ear. Cleona's love continued with her seven great-grandchildren, each of whom brought her immeasurable joy and light.

In addition to her love for her family, Cleona had a lifelong passion for reading. Books were a constant source of comfort and inspiration to her, and she often found herself lost in their pages, exploring new worlds while reflecting on her own life experiences. She was particularly drawn to stories about nature and the simple joys of life—values that mirrored her own love for the world around her.

Throughout her life, Cleona demonstrated a quiet strength. She was always there for those who needed her, especially during times of difficulty. She cared for her parents as they grew older, selflessly tending to their needs with the same loving devotion that she gave to her family. She also cared for her mother-in-law, providing her with comfort and support during her later years. Cleona's selflessness and generosity of spirit left an indelible mark on all those who were lucky enough to experience her love.

Cleona's passing leaves a deep void in the hearts of all who knew her. Her kindness, her generosity, and her unwavering love will never be forgotten. She was a mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, and friend who brightened the lives of everyone she encountered, and her spirit will live on in the many lives she touched.

Cleona was preceded in death by her parents, her beloved husband, Ronald, her son, Jack Uselton, and her siblings: Tim Wells, Paul Castle, Jerry Wells, Andrea Wells, and Colletta Hunt. While their loss was deeply felt, Cleona's family takes solace in the knowledge that she is now reunited with them in eternal peace.

She is survived by her son, John (Vickie) Uselton, her grandchildren Amanda (Tom) Uselton, Allan (India) Uselton, Kelley (Chip) Ward, Ashley Uselton, Dustin (Mallory) Uselton, and Lindsay Uselton, and ten great-grandchildren. Each of them carries a piece of Cleona's loving legacy within them, and they will continue to honor her memory in their lives.

A private family graveside service will be held at Chapel Hill Memorial Gardens on March 12, 2025, where Cleona will be laid to rest. Though we say goodbye to Cleona in this life, we take comfort in knowing that her memory, her love, and her lessons will continue to guide and inspire us.