Barbara Ann Ritzman

Barbara A. Ritzman, 88, of Lewis Center, went absent from the body and home with the Lord on December 22, 2025. She was born in Akron, Ohio, raised in Barberton, to the late Raymond and Mildred (Ware) Jones. In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her husband Larry P. Ritzman.

A doting wife and mother, dedicated to family, God, and love. During her 88 years, she shared her loving and sweet spirit with everyone blessed to meet her. Barbara accomplished that perfectly with her love for her parents, siblings, children, grandchildren, niece, nephews, friends, and even strangers who quickly became her friends.

Barbara suffered from Alzheimers Disease for many years with love, beauty, and grace. Alzheimers patients often grow bitter, angry, and confused. Barbara remained sweet, kind, loving, and confused. Her memories faded but she never forgot love and kindness.

Our souls were touched when near the end, she would say to family, "I don't remember you, but I know I love you."

Barbara was a cancer survivor, and wife for 63 years. She was a loving spirit to her son Todd (Charlene Spence) Ritzman; daughter Karen (Kevin) Poling; sister Marjorie (Robert) Guilda; her grand, and great-grandchildren.

Barbara was and her family is very thankful to Country View of Sunbury Memory Care, and Bella Care Hospice. They took exceptional care of Barbara until she peacefully transitioned to heaven.

A funeral service celebrating Barbara's life will be held at 12:00pm on January 2nd, at Linworth Baptist Church, 6200 Linworth Rd, Worthington. The family will receive friends from 10am until the service time. Burial will follow at Kingwood Memorial Park.