Della Findlay passed away peacefully on April 14, 2026, at Suncrest - Churchill Place Memory Care in Glen Ellyn, Illinois. Born on June 17, 1936, in Moline, Illinois, Della lived a life marked by kindness, dedication, and an enduring commitment to those around her.

A graduate of Moline High School in 1954, Della continued her education at Black Hawk College, earning an Associate's Degree. She devoted much of her professional life to Black Hawk College, where she served with distinction as an administrator. Prior to this role, she was passionately engaged as a career counselor, conducting career testing and using her skills to help countless individuals find their paths. Her professional contributions were underscored by her unwavering belief in people's potential; she always saw the good in others and valued their unique personalities and skills.

Della was known not only for her career achievements but also for her warm and caring nature. Those who knew her recall her as a woman who never discounted anyone’s abilities and consistently lifted others up through her kindness and encouragement. At family gatherings and reunions, she was beloved for her culinary talents, especially her deviled eggs, cole slaw, and pickled beets, recipes that were as cherished as the company she kept.

Her interests stretched beyond her professional life. She delighted in doing puzzles, bird watching, and gardening, nurturing a large and impressive rose garden that reflected her patient and loving spirit.

Della was preceded in death by her beloved husband, Clifford Findlay; her parents, John and Elma (Riley) Rich; and a sister, MaryCarol Wright. She is survived by her daughter, Mari (David) Minor of Itasca, Illinois; her son, Mike (Anne) Findlay of New Berlin, Wisconsin; grandchildren Ashley Minor, Eric Minor, Michael (Katie) Findlay, and Kelly (Reed) Hogan; and great-grandchildren, Sophie Rae Findlay, Elena Grace Findlay, Lottie Clifford Hogan, and Kit McKeon Hogan. She also leaves behind her sisters, Sandy Palos and Ruth (Edward) Smith, as well as numerous nieces and nephews.

A visitation will be held on Monday, April 20, 2026, from 12:00 PM to 1:00 PM at Hope United Church of Christ, 3324 41st Street, Moline, Illinois 61265. The funeral service will follow at 1:00 PM, at the same location. A graveside service will take place thereafter at Rock Island National Cemetery.

Della’s family invites those whose lives she touched to join in honoring her memory. Her gentle spirit, her generosity, and her unwavering faith in the goodness of people will remain with all who were privileged to know her.

Memorials in her name may be made to the Hope United Church of Christ, Moline, or the Dementia Society, reflecting causes dear to her heart.

Della Findlay’s legacy is one of compassion, strength, and quiet grace—a legacy that will continue to bloom in the hearts of her family and friends for years to come.

Family and friends are invited to share memories and condolences on her tribute page at www.wendtfuneralhome.com.