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If you have a loved one that is currently or previously associated with CCMS and have passed away, please click HERE to let us know about your loss so that we can share on our In Memoriam page.

Patsy J. Leon

August 13, 1936 - November 3, 2025

Patsy J. Leon, age 89, of Cleves, Ohio passed away on Monday, November 3, 2025. She was born in Cleveland, Tennessee on August 13, 1936.

She was preceded in death by her parents, Gladys and Edward Beekman, her husband, Thomas A. Leon and her siblings, Jim Johns and Martha Downing.

Patsy is survived by her daughter, Leslie (Matt) Yeoman, grandchildren Adam (Ryan) Yeoman, Natalie Yeoman and Katie Morgan and great-grandchild, Andon Patton, Harper Yeoman, and Jace Yeoman, and her faithful companion, Frannie (her grand dog).

She enjoyed dancing, singing, shopping, traveling and spending time with her family and friends.

Patsy spent many years as the Director of Financial Aid at the Cincinnati College of Mortuary Science. She helped many students navigate the financial part of college education. She loved helping the "kids" and would have gone back to work immediately, if she could.

A Celebration of Life will be held, Saturday, November 22, 2025 from 1 pm - 3 pm at Crossroads Westside Church, 8575 Bridgetown Road, in Cleves, Ohio.

In loving memory of Patsy, contributions may be made to Hospice of Cincinnati, c/o Bethesda Foundation, PO Box 633597, Cincinnati, Ohio 45263.

 

Sandra Merz-Vroman

Sandra Sue "Sandy" Merz-Vroman, age 83, of Walbridge, died Monday, March 24, 2025, at Bay Park Community Hospital. She was born in Toledo on September 3, 1941, to Virginia Mae Wetzel and Clarence Shumaker. Sandy was a 1959 graduate of Rossford High School where she was a varsity cheerleader. When she was young, she was a horse enthusiast that enjoyed showing horses and riding alongside her parents. In 1980 she met the love of her life, Harold J. Vroman, and they were married on July 10, 1987. Harold and Sandy traveled the United States extensively in the summers and frequented almost every state. Most recently, they enjoyed several trips to Hawaii with their son and daughter-in-law, Mick and Bethany. She was a voracious reader who enjoyed riding her bike and gardening alongside her husband.

Sandy retired from Rossford High School where she worked in the Nurse's office for 27 years, retiring in 2001. During that time, she served as an OAPSE Union Steward and in 1989 she was the recipient of the RHS Gladieux award which honored outstanding employees who demonstrated strong character. In 1995 she started working at Witzler-Shank Funeral Homes alongside her oldest son, Mick, and later her youngest son, Mark, joined them. It was here she found a second passion, helping for over 30 years those families who had experienced the loss of someone they loved. She would often be found in the office answering phones or receiving families at the front door. At their Walbridge location, she was fondly referred by many as the "Mayor" of Walbridge because nothing ever slipped by her. Sandy helped in organizing many Walbridge community events, such as Walbridge Fest and Music in the Park at Friendship Park in Lake Twp, but her favorite event was the Carefree senior bus trips she organized where she and her husband enjoyed creating lots of long-lasting friendships.

She was often quoted as saying "As a single mom, my crowning achievements in life were raising my two sons, Mick and Mark, both of whom graduated from college."

She was preceded in death by her parents, Clarence and Virginia Wetzel Shumaker; her loving and doting husband, Harold J. "Papa" Vroman, who preceded her in death on January 30, 2024; along with her aunt, Mary Shumaker, on October 28, 2024.

She is survived by her sons, Mick (Bethany) and Mark (Dr. Jerome Webster) Merz; as well as by her special aunt, Margy Ann Jackson.

Friends and family will be received on Sunday, March 30, 2025, from 2:00 – 7:00 p.m. at Thomas I. Wisniewski Funeral Home, 2426 N. Reynolds Road, Toledo, Ohio 43615, 419-531-4424, where funeral services will be held on Monday, March 31, 2025, at 10:30 a.m. with Pastor Marty Pennington officiating. Burial will follow in Fort Meigs Union Cemetery, Perrysburg, Ohio.

In lieu of flowers, her family requests that memorial contributions be made in Sandy's name to St Jude Children's Research Hospital, 501 St. Jude’s Place, Memphis, TN, 38105.

Online condolences may be made to her family at www.wisniewskifuneral.net.

Marilyn Merk

Mother of John Merk, Tri-County Funeral Directors Association President, Funeral Director at Behm Funeral Homes, Inc.

Marilyn Merk, the Loving Mother of Marjorie Cole, John and Yih-ting Merk, grandmother to Marilyn and Charles, Alphonse and Lydia, great grandmother of Aria, faithful and devoted wife of the late Stephen Merk, daughter of blessed Miriam and Alphonse Piacente, Sr., and sister to Joanne Picone and Alphonse “Buster” Piacente, Jr., all resting in the Peace of Christ, comforting one another in Love as we are here, was saved out of this fallen world, through the Mercy of our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ. Mom had the Heart and Hands of Christ, comforting those in despair and feeding everyone, anytime, always.

Marilyn and her husband, Stephen, were business owners and operators of their own, “Steffen’s Hair Salon” for 41 years in Wickliffe. Marilyn then went on to “Scissorhands Salon” from 2006 to 2016.

Marilyn and Steve were partners together in marriage for 46 years, united in family life and Catholic Faith. Their service and dedication, and love of Christ and inspiring, prayerful liturgical music began at St. John of the Cross, formerly St. Felicitas, in Richmond Hts., where they were also married. Steve was the organist and choir director, and Marilyn a beautiful alto voice. In 2003, they transferred parish to Willoughby Immaculate Conception Church and its choir, under the direction of Mr. Michael Kelley, from 2003 until 2016.

Moving from Willoughby Hills to Perry in 2016, Marilyn joined her son John in the music ministry at St. Cyprian Parish…and were together as recently as 2 weeks ago, overcoming every challenge, in choir and during Mass, Singing to the Lord a New Song, for He Has Done Marvelous Deeds. Our service together was a special blessing to both of us, and Mom was glad to say, “The family that prays and sings together, stays together in Christ.” Marilyn was a gifted teacher, skillfully educating young PSR students in our Catholic Faith at both Immaculate Conception and St. Cyprian. This was important to her.

Mass of Christian Burial will be 12 pm, Tuesday, October 14, 2025, at St Cyprian Church, 4223 Middle Ridge Road, Perry, Ohio 44081. Friends and family may arrive for a calling hour prior to Mass, at 11am. Behm Family Funeral Home is caring for Marilyn and her family.

William "Bill" A. Cummins, Jr.

Funeral Director/Embalmer and Brother of Candee Svensson, Co-Owners of Kelley-Cummins Funeral Home

William A. “Bill” Cummins Jr., 54 died on Friday September 26, 2025 after a courageous battle with colorectal cancer. He was born December 10, 1970 in Cleveland, a son of William A. “Bill” and Mary S. “Sue” Reeves Cummins and moved to Hubbard in 1971 as a baby when his parents relocated from Cleveland.

Bill was a member of the St. Patrick Roman Catholic Church and a 1989 graduate of Hubbard High School. He attended Youngstown State University and graduated from the Cincinnati College of Mortuary Science in 1996. He was a licensed funeral director and embalmer for over 26 years for the former Kelley-Robb Funeral Home where he began working in 1989. On December 23, 2009 Bill and his sister Candee purchased the funeral home, which is now, the Kelley-Cummins Funeral Home.

Bill was a member of the Ohio Funeral Directors Association, the Ohio Embalmers Association and the National Funeral Directors Association. He was awarded the Hometown Hero Award in 2021. Bill was honored by the Hubbard High School Alumni Association as the Alumni of the Year Honoree in 2013. He lived his life to help others and wants everyone to know his life has not ended, but has changed.

Bill was an avid NASCAR and Ohio State fan and enjoyed traveling with his wife. His love was being on his Harley, especially taking trips to Florida. Most of all Bill enjoyed spending time with his family and friends and being with his puppies.

He leaves his wife, the former Leisa Needham whom he married October 16, 2015; his father William A. “Bill” Cummins Sr. of Hubbard, his sons, Brian (JoAnn King) Anderson Needham of Seminole, FL., and Eric (Angel Marinkovich) Notman of Brookfield, OH., his grandchildren, Erik (Samantha) Needham of Jacksonville, NC., Tyler (Lexi Adkins) Notman of Kent, OH., Kay Fibelibus and Scarelett Fibelibus both of Hilliard, OH., his great-granddaughter and his little peanut Karlie Rae Needham; his beloved sister Candee Svensson and his forever special nephew Zack Svensson of Hubbard. Bill is also survived by his brother and sister-in-laws Denise (Lou) Putigano, David (Bonnie) Needham and Joni Wilkinson; as well as two aunts, seven cousins and many friends whom he deeply loved and cherished. He also leaves his spoiled and loved companions, his puppies Maggie and Lily.

Bill was preceded in death by his mother, Sue Cummins, his sister-in-law Glenda Miller and his beloved Mabel, who was always by his side.

 

Bill exhibited an unwavering dedication to the Hubbard community, especially to support the youth. To continue his legacy, memorial donations may be made to the Bill Cummins Memorial Scholarship Fund.

 

Family and friends may call on Thursday October 2, 2025 from 3:00 PM to 7:00 PM and again on Friday October 3, 2025 from 9-9:45AM at the Kelley-Cummins Funeral Home. Prayers will be on Friday October 3, 2025 at 10AM at the Kelley-Cummins Funeral Home, a Mass of Christian Burial will follow at 11AM at St. Patrick Roman Catholic Church in Hubbard.

 

Interment will be at Hubbard Union Cemetery.

Please visit www.kcummins.com to view this obituary and to send condolences to Bill’s family.

Charles "Chuck" J. Lokar

Retired Funeral Director of Jenkins Funeral Chapel

Charles (Chuck) John Lokar, passed away peacefully with his family at his side, Wednesday September 17, 2025, at the age of 81, after a courageous battle with cancer.

Chuck was born in 1944 to Martin and Alma Lokar and grew up in Euclid with his brother Ron. Chuck and Ron shared a lifelong love of baseball, playing together from their early days in tee ball through high school teams and later in sharing stories about their adult softball leagues.

Chuck lived a life devoted to serving others. After attending Bowling Green State University and Cincinnati College of Mortuary Science, he proudly served his country as an Army Reservist—a commitment that reflected his deep love of his country. Following his service, he began a long and meaningful career as a funeral director at Jenkins Funeral Chapel. For more than 40 years, his compassion and empathy touched countless lives, allowing him to form genuine and lasting connections with the families he served.

Above all, Chuck’s greatest joy was his family. He married the love of his life, Lynn (Hagerty), on March 28, 1969, and together they recently celebrated 56 wonderful years. They were blessed with four children—Tammy (Kent), Tracy, Tina (Brendan), and Todd (Jackie). Chuck’s heart was fullest when surrounded by his nine grandchildren: Jacob, Audrey, Trevor, Trent, Kylie, Sydney, Braydon, Hannah, and Noah. In retirement, ‘Grandpa’ never missed a chance to cheer them on, attending every event he could. And when he couldn’t be there in person, he always sent a good luck text and made sure they knew just how proud he was of them. He truly was their biggest fan.

Chuck’s love for sports ran deep. A loyal Cleveland Browns season ticket holder for nearly 40 years, he cheered them on through every high and low with unwavering dedication. When he wasn’t in the stands, you could find him on the golf course with friends or sharing lively conversations about the Cavs and Indians over weekly lunches with his best friend, Don. Sports weren’t just a pastime for Chuck—they were a source of joy, camaraderie, and connection.

Chuck and Lynn loved exploring restaurants and flea markets in Florida and more recently loved spending the winters away from the snow. When then weren’t in Florida, they could be found serving the community through organizing, cooking and serving monthly meals at the Westlake United Methodist Church.

Chuck gave his heart and soul to living life to make the world a better place for those he loved and those he served. He will be deeply missed.

Memorial Service to be held Saturday, September 27 at 4pm at Jenkins Funeral Chapel, 2914 Dover Center Road, Westlake, where family and friends will be received from 2 pm until time of service.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the Berea Animal Rescue.

Joanna M. Mazzarella

Mother of Anthony Jr. and Robert Mazzarella Sr.; Grandmother of Robert Jr., Jay and Lia Mazzarella, all of American Coach Sales

Joanne M. Mazzarella (nee Taylor), Age 84. Beloved wife of the late Anthony Sr.; loving mother of Robert Stultz (Tara), David Stultz, Julia Rutkowski (Joseph), Anthony Jr. (Jillian), John (Brittney), Anna Maria Masterson (Lawrence), Robert L. Sr. (Holly), Donna, Regina "Bebe" Kramer (Brian) Mary Jo Mazzarella (Michael Reminick), Angela Mazzarella-Krulik (deceased) (Brian, deceased); grandmother of Virginia, Natalie, Christopher, Robert L. Jr., Shannon, Jay, Kerri, Xavier, Kelly, Lia, Roxy, Hannah, Lucia, Lucas, Stella, Mia Merle and Enzo; great grandmother of Madeline, Isabelle, Dominic, Elliot, Oliver, Louie, Ava, Maeve, Eleanor, Emilia, Eddie and Annie. Passed away August 31, 2025. Funeral Mass St. Ladislas Church 2345 Bassett Rd. Saturday, September 6, 2025 at 10:00 a.m. Interment St. Joseph Cemetery, Avon. Friends may call at the McGORRAY-HANNA FUNERAL HOME OF WESTLAKE 25620 CENTER RIDGE RD. (WEST OF COLUMBIA RD.) FRIDAY FROM 3-7 p.m. Family suggests memorial contributions to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital 501 St. Jude Place Memphis, TN 38105 stjude.org

Patricia F. Brickman

Mother of Bill & Phil Brickman, Mother-in-Law of Jenni Brickman, Grandmother of Suzanne Brickman, all of Brickman Bros. Funeral Home

Patricia F. Brickman (nee Koterba) age 97, passed away Sept. 20, 2025 at her home in Perry, Ohio. She was born March 4, 1928 in Cleveland. Pat is the beloved wife of the late Ralph; dear mother of Tim (Barb), Bill, Don, Phil (Jenni); grandmother of Suzanne, Billy, Filesha, Greg (Aimee), Michael, Brittany; great grandmother of Kyle and Whalen.

Her greatest joy was being a homemaker. She enjoyed being a wife, mother and grandmother to her family.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be on Saturday, September 27, 2025 at 11 AM at St. John Vianney Church, 7575 Bellflower Rd. in Mentor (PLEASE MEET AT CHURCH). Interment will take place at All Souls Cemetery in Chardon, Ohio. 

The family will receive friends at Brickman Bros. Funeral Home, 37433 Euclid Ave. in Willoughby on Friday, September 26 from 4-7 PM. Contributions to Ohio Living Hospice or Ursuline Sisters of Cleveland would be appreciated.

Robert M. Kiley

Retired Funeral Director and Former Partner of Waite Funeral Homes

Robert M. Kiley, a deeply loved husband, father, grandfather, great grandfather and friend, was lovingly welcomed into the arms of his Heavenly Father on Saturday, August 23. He was blessed with 84 wonderful years of good health and the devoted love of his family. Each of his children and his grandchildren knew without a doubt that they were deeply loved unconditionally. He left a legacy of devoted love and an example of honesty, integrity, kindness, generosity and hard work. He was extremely proud of both his children, Brian and Beth, and each grandchild and their accomplishments.

He was born March 27, 1941, and grew up on a farm where he loved to explore in the woods with his twin brother making up all sorts of adventures. He enjoyed observing the animals and birds and loved to share many nature discoveries in the parks with his children, grandchildren and groups of youth he led over the years. He enjoyed nature, feeding the many different types of birds that came to his feeders, and the beauty of each day.

He graduated from Buckeye High School where he was active in many organizations including president of the student body. He attended Defiance College and graduated from Cincinnati College of Mortuary Science. Except for his college years, he lived his entire life in Medina and was proud of the town which he served in many ways.

He never met a stranger and enjoyed getting to know about a person’s life and interests. He had a welcoming nature and easily made many friends of any age. Younger ones were excited to see Mr. Bob. He was jovial and kind and a loyal and devoted friend to many and was always willing to lend a hand on any project or offer advice in any situation.

Bob loved music, singing in high school choirs and quartet, church choir, select concert choir in college, SPEBSQSA and the Medina County Chorus. He met Betty in high school choir, and they sang together in church choir for 25 years as well as the County Chorus, and many duets at church and weddings. They passed this love of music on to their children and grandchildren who all enjoyed instruments and vocal singing in many select groups.

He was a lifetime member of York United Methodist church and enjoyed telling people he was the longest member of the church and remembered when his feet did not touch the floor in the pews. His faith was a very important part of his life, and he freely shared his commitment with others in the way he led his life of the highest integrity, honesty and kindness. Throughout the years he served on many committees in different areas of service in his church. Bob and Betty led the youth groups for many years sharing their faith and exemplifying lives of service and kindness.

He was proud of his 32 years of service on the Medina City Fire Department serving as lieutenant and driving the aerial ladder truck. The mayor asked him to serve as the next fire chief, but Bob decided it was time to retire. The younger members on the department respectfully called him “Uncle Bob.”

He had a passion for his corvettes winning several awards for Best of Show and even driving the “getaway car” for his granddaughter’s wedding. He also enjoyed model A cars and especially postal delivery trucks.

He rescued his first boat from the bottom of Lester dam as a teen and boating became a lifelong activity. Fishing, sightseeing with friends, or tubing his grandkids around the lake—he loved to be on the water. The family made many cherished memories at the Lakeside cottage where Bob and Betty hosted many gatherings for family, friends and neighbors. It was always “open house” at the cottage, and he enjoyed being at Lakeside any season of the year. He was very proud to share that his grandchildren worked a total of 18 summers at Lakeside.

He had many varied interests throughout his life including an extensive collection of Native American artifacts which he shared with many elementary classrooms over the years.

He studied World War II history and had a large library of books and film documentaries. One highlight of his life was visiting Normandy, Omaha Beach and many world war areas of France and England.

He enjoyed woodworking and crafted many beautiful wooden toys for his children and grandchildren over the years. For a few years he built equipment for several nursery schools and churches. He was an entrepreneur in many areas including owning a storage facility.

He served 42 years with Waite Funeral Home, becoming a partner in the firm and helping to mentor the next generation. They were not coworkers but friends who shared a deep respect for each other. He was gifted in the way he brought comfort to many families sharing his faith and deep sense of caring. He served faithfully, unselfishly giving his time and guidance to those who needed his care. After his retirement, he continued to guide families with compassion as they worked through their grief choosing markers for their loved ones.

He is survived by his wife Betty, recently celebrating 61 years of marriage; his children Brian and Chrissy Kiley and Beth and Gene Hubler; grandchildren Jake (Liz) Kiley, Mallory (Noah) Rayne, Rachel (Michael) Carman, Hailey Hubler, Zach Hubler, Hannah (Alec) Dicus, and Nate Hubler; 8 great grandchildren; twin brother David; brother in law, nephews, nieces, and cousins. He was preceded in death by brothers Michael and John and parents John and Rosa Kiley.

His life will be celebrated with calling hours from 5:00 to 8:00pm on Thursday, August 28 at Waite Funeral Home, 765 N. Court St., and 11:00am to noon on Friday, followed by the service at noon. Rev. Dr. David Baker and Rev. Judy Claycomb will lead the celebration of his life. Interment will be at Spring Grove Cemetery in Medina. Instead of flowers, please consider donations to York United Methodist Church, 6566 Norwalk Road, Medina, Hospice of the Western Reserve, 5075 Windfall Road, Medina or Lakeside Chautauqua, 236 Walnut Avenue, Lakeside.

His life was lived with faith, honesty, integrity, generosity, hard work, kindness and a devoted love for his family. “Well done good and faithful servant. Enter into your Father’s house with joy and find rest.”

Online condolences and memories may be left for the family in Bob’s guestbook at www.WaiteFuneralHome.com

Frederick "Fred" William Grisier

Retired Funeral Director; Father of Funeral Director and Past Owner, Todd M. Grisier, and Retired Funeral Director Scott C. Grisier; Grandfather of Adam G. Grisier, Owner, all of Grisier Funeral Homes

It is with great sadness that the Grisier family announces the passing of its patriarch, Frederick “Fred” William Grisier, at the age of 88, on November 1, 2025, at the CHP Defiance Inpatient Hospice. It is with great faith that we now rejoice in his eternal glory.

Fred owned and operated the Grisier Funeral Homes in Stryker, Archbold, and Wauseon, being a licensed funeral director and embalmer for 68 years. He was very proud to be the fourth-generation funeral director of the family business, a legacy that has now reached six generations and 129 years of service.

Fred was born in Stryker on May 14, 1937, the son of William and Helen (Perkins) Grisier. Fred was a graduate of Archbold High School in 1955, Defiance College, and later, The Cincinnati College of Mortuary Science. On September 1, 1956, he married the love of his life, Helen Marie (Potts), who preceded him in death on May 5, 2019. Together, they raised four sons, operated the family business, and devoted their lives to serving their communities. Fred and Helen were members of the Stryker United Methodist Church, where Fred served on many different committees through the years. Fred was a man of great faith, and leaned on his faith through his many years of service.

Fred was a member of the Stryker Rotary Club for over 65 years, where he became a Paul Harris Fellow. Fred also served on the F&M Bank-Stryker Advisory Board for 28 years. He was an avid collector of arms and accouterments from the period of the French and Indian War up through the Revolutionary War. He was a student of history and was always educating himself and willing to share his knowledge with others. Because of his love of history, Fred proudly served as a member of the Stryker Heritage Council.

Fred was named Stryker’s “Good Neighbor” in 2017. He served on the Board of Public Affairs and cared for Stryker Oakwood Cemetery for more than 60 years. He was a lifetime NRA member and belonged to the Contemporary Longrifle and Kentucky Rifle Associations. Fred also served with the Stryker Fire Department and was a member of the F&AM West Unity Lodge. Fred prided himself on service above self and carried that in his heart in every path of life he journeyed. He enjoyed caring for every community he served in his profession, but had a special place in his heart for the town of Stryker.

Fred is survived by his children, Marc (Debora) Grisier of Toledo, Todd (Sabrina) Grisier of Archbold, Scott Grisier of Perrysburg; daughter-in-law, Gwen (Jeff) Grisier-Mires of Archbold; grandchildren, Christian Grisier of Toledo, Grant (Jessica) Grisier of Holland, Ohio, Emily (Caleb) Turnbull of Bryan, Colin (Sarah) Grisier of Columbus, Luke Grisier of Maumee, Adam (Courtney) Grisier of Archbold, and Cole Grisier of Toledo. He is also survived by great-grandchildren, Ellis, Lettie, William, Samantha, Hayes, Eric, Helena, and Millie. He was preceded in death by his wife, Helen; one son, Eric Grisier; and granddaughter, Chelsey Grisier. He was also preceded in death by his parents; siblings, Beryl Grisier, Robert Grisier, David Grisier, infant sister, Marsha Grisier, and sister, Phyllis Grisier Reed. Fred’s biggest pride in his life was his family, whom he cherished.

Visitation for Fred will take place on Thursday, November 6, 2025, at the Stryker United Methodist Church, from 1pm to 7pm. A funeral service will take place on Friday, November 7, 2025, at the church, with Pastor Nico Kinner and Bill Priest officiating. A committal service will follow the service at the Stryker Oakwood Cemetery, of which he cared for, for over 65 years, with Pastor Nick Woodall officiating. In lieu of flowers, the family asks that memorial contributions be given to the Stryker United Methodist Church or the Stryker Rotary Club in Fred’s memory. Those wishing to leave a memory or words of encouragement for the family may do so at grisierfh.com. The Grisier Funeral Home family and staff are ever so honored to care for Fred, just as he cared for so many through the years.

 

Carolyn Kay Hare

Former Owner of Mann-Hare Funeral Home and Mother-in-Law of Ryan Hobbs, COO of Walker Funeral Homes

Carolyn Kay Hare, age 80, of Waterville, Ohio, passed away peacefully on October 30, 2025, at Hospice of Northwest Ohio in Toledo, with the warmth of the sun upon her face. Born on July 1, 1945, in Cambridge, Ohio, she was the cherished daughter of Arley and Freda (Tomey) Wilfong.

On November 7, 1970, Carolyn married Thomas R. Hare, embarking on a lifelong partnership rooted in devotion and service. Together, they built a legacy in funeral care, beginning with the purchase of their first funeral home in North Baltimore, Ohio, and later acquiring the Mann Funeral Home in Fostoria in 1980. For over three decades, Carolyn and Tom compassionately served hundreds of grieving families, retiring in 2005 with a reputation for dignity, grace, and heartfelt hospitality.

Carolyn’s warmth extended far beyond the walls of the funeral homes. She was renowned for her impeccable attention to detail and her gift for creating spaces that felt like home. Whether welcoming guests into her beautifully appointed residence or preparing seasonal décor, especially her beloved Christmas trees, Carolyn infused every corner with charm and care. Her culinary talents were equally admired, with homemade apple dumplings marking football season and exquisite hors d’oeuvres delighting guests on Christmas Eve.

A consummate hostess, Carolyn made everyone feel like family. Her home was a haven for longtime friends and new acquaintances alike, and her vibrant spirit often made her the heart of every gathering. Her service to her community included a longtime membership and serving as past president of the Fostoria Emblem Club.

In her later years, Carolyn found immense joy in the company of her grandchildren and great-grandchildren, attending their games, meets, and recitals with pride and enthusiasm. Her grandchildren will also remember “Nana” for her terrific jokes, storytelling, and for her prowess at playing card games, particularly Skip-Bo. Carolyn shared many happy moments with Tom watching Ohio State football and Cleveland Indians baseball, and treasured their winters spent in the Florida sunshine.

Carolyn’s legacy is one of elegance and unwavering devotion to family and community. She will be fondly remembered by those whose lives she touched with her thoughtful gestures, creativity, and radiant spirit.

Surviving is her husband of nearly 55 years, Tom Hare; children; David (Linda) Hare, Kirsten (Frank) Bevilacqua, and Erica (Ryan) Hobbs; grandchildren, David (Whitney) Hare, Olivia Hare, Sophia and Isabella Bevilacqua, Anthony (Helen) Hobbs, Alexis (Kyle) Buzzi, Avery, Anderson, Adeline, Adam, Ambrose, Anna, Abigail, and Aquinas Hobbs; great grandchildren, Brandy and Nora Hare, Scarlett and Ezra Buzzi; sister, Lorreta Heddleson; and numerous nieces, nephews, and cousins. Carolyn was preceded in death by her parents, Arley Wilfong and Freda Hoffman; and sister, Shirley.

Family and friends visited from 5-8 p.m., Friday, October 31, 2025, at the Walker Funeral Home, 5155 Sylvania Avenue, Toledo, OH 43623. Funeral services were held on Saturday, November 1, 2025, at the Church of the Cross, 1750 Eastgate Road, Toledo, OH 43614. Private interment will take place at Roth Cemetery in Monclova Twp.

Contributions in her name are suggested to The Northwest Ohio Classical Academy Foundation, 5025 Glendale Ave., Toledo, OH 43614. walkerfuneralhomes.com.

Gladys L. Hensley

Mother of Robert "Bob" Hensley, III, CFSP, Divisional Leader with Newcomer Funeral Homes

Gladys L. Hensley, a beloved matriarch, gently departed this world on November 1, 2025, surrounded by the warmth and love of her family. Born on August 8, 1930, in Junction City, Kentucky, Gladys lived a vibrant life filled with cherished moments, laughter, and kindness.

Gladys dedicated 30 years of her working life as a candy maker for Esther Price Candy, where her sweet creations brought joy to many. Beyond her professional achievements, she was a passionate volunteer with the city of Kettering's Active Volunteer Program, where she devoted an impressive 10,900 hours to helping others, reflecting her generous spirit and commitment to giving back to her community.

Family was the cornerstone of Gladys’s life. She adored her children, Dianna (Bob) Doyle and Robert "Bob" (Regina) Hensley, III, who were a constant source of pride and happiness. Her heart swelled with joy when she was in the company of her grandchildren - Jennifer, Amanda, Rachel, Loren, and Carmen - and she took immense delight in her 13 great-grandchildren and even her 4 great-great-grandchildren, all of whom benefited from her nurturing love and lively spirit.

Gladys was a woman of many talents and joyful pursuits. Memories flooded in of family gatherings where she played the spoons, even playing in Branson, Missouri. Her enthusiasm for life shone through in her love of line dancing, showing her zest for enjoyment and connection. She would frequently visit friends and loved ones in nursing homes, demonstrating her profound kindness and willingness to uplift others’ spirits.

For over 20 years, she sang in the church choir, her voice joining harmonies that brought comfort and joy to many. Gladys’s personality radiated warmth and gentleness; she was known as the nicest person one could ever meet, possessing an undeniably kind heart. She never spoke a bad word about anyone and had a remarkable ability to connect with those around her, always nurturing friendships with her outgoing nature and infectious laughter.

Gladys is now reunited with those who have gone before her, including her parents, Henry and Nannie Burge, and her dear husband of 45 years, Robert "Bob" Hensley, Jr. She also joins her five brothers and two sisters, bringing together her family once more in a place of peace.

Her legacy will forever remain in the hearts of her loved ones, a testament to a life well-lived and a soul that truly embodied love. Gladys L. Hensley will be lovingly remembered for her unwavering devotion to her family, her gentle spirit, and the countless lives she touched with her kindness and warmth.

Visitation will be held from 11:30am-1:00pm, on Thursday, November 6, 2025, at Newcomer Funeral Home, 3380 Dayton-Xenia Rd., Beavercreek, where the Funeral Service will begin at 1:00pm, with Reverend Dave Tackett officiating. Burial will follow at Mt. Zion Shoup Cemetery, Beavercreek.

To view a Livestream of the Funeral Service, please CLICK HERE.

Donations may be made in her memory to Hospice of Dayton, 324 Wilmington Ave., Dayton, OH, 45420.