Ann Irion Rarey

Ann Irion Rarey passed away peacefully on March 9, 2026, in Upper Arlington, Ohio, at the age of 95. Born on February 23, 1931, in Columbus, Ohio, she was a beacon of strength, wit, and kindness, known for her lifelong service, community involvement, and deep love for the Ohio State Buckeyes.

Ann graduated from Upper Arlington High School in 1949 and later earned a Bachelor of Science in Education from The Ohio State University in 1953, after attending Miami University. She was an active member of Alpha Xi Delta Sorority for 29 years. Following her education, Ann taught kindergarten for two years before beginning a successful real estate career that spanned more than 50 years, renewing her license at the remarkable age of 91.

Ann received numerous honors for her dedication to service. She was named Upper Arlington Rotary Outstanding Woman of the Year in 1976. She also received three awards for her devotion to Greek Alumnae Service in 1971, 1980, and 1981. Her commitment to The Buckeye Ranch was recognized with awards in 1984, 1988, and 1990, and a building dedicated in honor of her and her husband John named The Rarey Retreat.

Ann’s determination and hard work were legendary. She was always eager to share wisdom, especially about helping others, a principle she upheld throughout her life. A devoted member of First Community Church, Ann also held numerous leadership roles in organizations close to her heart. She served as Membership Advisor, Treasurer, and President of the Alpha Xi Delta Foundation. She also served as Vice President and as Swim and Membership Chairman at the Swim and Racquet Club. Ann shared her time and expertise as a board member of The Buckeye Ranch and the Greater Columbus Tennis Association, and volunteered with The Childhood League Board VI, Twig 11, and the Catherine Black Cancer Ray.

Ann loved sports and was an enthusiastic supporter of her favorite team, the Ohio State Buckeyes. She enjoyed playing cards with her longtime card group, especially Euchre, Scratch, and Bridge. She was also an avid tennis and golf player. Ann loved to travel, with Europe, Australia, and New Zealand among her favorite destinations, and she cherished spending winter months at her condo in Siesta Key, Florida.

Ann leaves behind a loving family, including her daughter, Barb Rarey Lott; her son-in-law, Mike Dyas (Sandy Dyas); granddaughters Ryan Lott, Alyssa Dyas Smith (Kyle Smith), Kelly Dyas, and Gretchen Dyas Chan (Kevin Chan); great-grandchildren Addison, Payton, and Myles Chan, and Lucas and Cindy McMillan. She was preceded in death by her beloved daughter, Cindy Dyas; her husband, John Rarey; and her parents, Harry and Edith Irion.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to The Buckeye Ranch at buckeyeranch.org.

Ann was a remarkable woman whose lively spirit, strong will, and loving heart touched countless lives. Her unwavering dedication to family, friends, and community leaves a legacy that will continue to inspire others. Her life will be remembered and celebrated for the kindness, generosity, and service she shared with so many.

A celebration of Ann’s life will be held Thursday, March 26, 2026, from 3–5 PM at Schoedinger Northwest, 1740 Zollinger Road, Upper Arlington, Ohio 43221. In keeping with Ann’s joyful spirit, attendees are encouraged to wear colorful, casual attire.