Esther "Dolly" Ruth Loyd

Dolly was born on December 23, 1928, in Dayton, Ohio. She was preceded in death by her beloved husband of 63 years, George Russell Loyd; her daughter, Beverly Locke; her son, George Russell Loyd, Jr.; and her granddaughter, Deby Miller Downey.

She is survived by her daughter, Linda Miller (Ron); her son, David Loyd (Karen); daughter-in-law, Mary Loyd; son-in-law, Joe Locke; 8 grandchildren; 14 great-grandchildren; and 7 great-great-grandchildren, along with many other family members and friends who will miss her dearly.

As a teenager, Dolly worked in her family’s bakery, where she learned the value of hard work and dedication. Her greatest joy, however, was raising and caring for her family. She devoted her life to creating a loving home and making lasting memories with those she loved.

Dolly enjoyed bowling, fishing, boating, camping, traveling, and spending time sitting on her front porch, where she welcomed family, friends, and neighbors alike. She will be remembered for her wonderful sense of humor, her special love for babies, and the warmth she brought to every gathering.

Family traditions were made even more special by Dolly’s cooking and baking. Her chicken and noodles, carrot cake—always with “not quite enough icing”—and her famous Christmas punch will be fondly remembered and lovingly missed by all who knew her.

The family would like to express their heartfelt gratitude to the staff of Bethany Lutheran Village for the exceptional care and compassion they provided during the last five years of her life. The family also extends sincere thanks to Hospice of Dayton for their dedicated support and services.

Visitation will be held on Tuesday, June 30, 2026, from 10:00 a.m. until 12:00 p.m. at Tobias Funeral Home - Beavercreek Chapel. Funeral services will begin at 12:00 p.m., officiated by Joe Locke, followed by interment at Woodland Cemetery and Arboretum.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to Hospice of Dayton.

Dolly’s family will forever cherish her laughter, her stories, her recipes, and the love she shared so freely. Her legacy lives on in the family she built, nurtured, and loved with all her heart. She will be deeply missed and lovingly remembered always.