Denise Louise Gaines, 65, of Bellefontaine, passed away unexpectedly at Belle Springs on Monday, September 8, 2025.

She was born in Martins Ferry, Ohio on April 10, 1960, the daughter of the late Raymond Lee Gaines Sr and Joan (Smith) Gaines, who survives.

Denise graduated from Bellefontaine High School in 1978 and was the 1977 Homecoming queen.

After graduating high school, Denise attended "The" Ohio State University and later worked for Doctors North Hospital, as well as several other Columbus hospitals before leaving the nursing field and going into retail.

She is survived by her mother Joan E. Gaines and Step-mother Cara Gaines, as well as, daughter Joan "Joanie" Angelique (Will Bodger); siblings, Lee (Wendy) Gaines and Richard Magers-Cook of Bellefontaine, Dajuan (Todd) Kindle of West Liberty, Whitney (Jacob) Michaels of New York. Nieces and nephews; Janessa (Brett) Stecker, Lauren (Jake Greiner) Kindle, Jackie and Laura Sensenbrenner, David Bohling, CJ (Abigail) Cook and Mason (Haylei Elkins) Cook. Denise was preceded in death by her father, Raymond Lee Gaines Sr., Brother Glenn "Mike" Gaines, as well as grandparents, several aunts and uncles.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to the Gaines Family in care of Jennings Farley & Seeley funeral Home, 5591 US-68, West Liberty, OH  43357

A Celebration of Life will take place Monday, September 15, 2025 at 3:00 p.m. at Jennings Farley & Seeley Funeral Home & Crematory. Visitation will take place from 1:00 p.m. until the time of the services. Burial will take place in Highland Memorial Cemetery at a later date.

Online Condolences may be expressed at www.jenningsfarley.com