Leslie Saunders Kress

Leslie Saunders Kress, beloved wife, mother, daughter, sister, friend, teacher, and neighbor, passed away on May 26th, 2026 after a courageous battle with cancer. She was 43.

Born September 6, 1982 in Port Jefferson, NY, Leslie lived a life centered on family, friendship, kindness, and service to others. She was the devoted wife of Troy and the loving mother of Avery and Max, who were the pride and joy of her life. Leslie graduated from Thomas Worthington High School in 2001, received a Bachelor’s in Education from Wittenberg in 2005, and a Master’s from Ashland University.

Leslie dedicated 25 years of her life to teaching, touching countless students and families with her compassion, patience, and unwavering belief in others. She was known for her selflessness and generosity, always putting the needs of others before her own. Through volunteer work, acts of kindness, and the example she set every day, she taught her children the importance of caring for others and making a positive difference in the world. She loved her students and colleagues at Smith Elementary in Delaware City Schools, Westside Elementary in Baker County, Florida and Hidden Oak Elementary in Gainesville, Florida.

Leslie loved traveling and treasured exploring new places, creating lasting memories, and sharing adventures with those she loved most. We will always remember her sense of humor, her way with words, and her beautiful smile.

She is survived by her husband, Troy; her children, Avery and Max; her parents, Jim and Diana Saunders; her sister, Emily Saunders and brother-in-law Thomas Link, and many extended family members, friends, colleagues, and neighbors who will deeply miss her.

Though cancer took her far too soon, it never diminished her strength, grace, or love for her family. Her legacy lives on in the countless lives she touched and in the memories shared by those who loved her.

A visitation will be held on June 27th at Schoedinger Funeral Home, 6699 N. High Street, Worthington, OH from 2pm-6pm. In lieu of flowers, Leslie would have wanted a donation to a charity of your choice.

Leslie’s family asks that she be remembered not for the illness she endured, but for the love, laughter, generosity, and joy she brought into the world every day.