Avis Iona Fisher

Avis Fisher, born on July 20, 1929, passed away peacefully on February 1, 2025, leaving behind a legacy of love and cherished memories. Born in Ft. Wayne IN, she spent her early childhood in Belington and Chester WV, where the family was originally from. Moving back to Ft. Wayne with her mother and siblings, she attended Central High School where she met Richard (Dick) Fisher, and this began their journey together.

Avis found immense joy in life’s simple pleasures: spending time with her family, cross-stitching, square dancing, and ceramics. They belonged to Waynedale United Methodist Church, where she and Richard served and supported for many years. Avis (miss Avis) was very proud she taught preschool and oversaw the sunday school program there. Her favorite saying was "It's all about the kids," a sentiment she lived by as she devoted herself to her grandchildren and great-grandchildren.

Some of Avis’ happiest moments were spent with her sister Ruby in the Arbor House gift shop, meeting new people and creating beautiful displays for over the years. From 1969 she traveled with Richard across the country as his career advanced. After Richard’s retirement in 1988, they moved to Jimerson Shores near Angola, Indiana, where they embraced lake life with their dear friends and grandchildren.

They enjoyed garage sales, flea markets, and ice cream socials. They continued their travels for many years to places like Texas and Mexico. In 2009 they relocated to Cortland, Ohio, to be closer to their growing family. Avis delighted in watching her loved ones thrive as they played, grew up, married, and built their own lives.

Avis and Richard shared a remarkable bond that spanned over seven decades. His words to her—"Stick with me and we'll go places"—proved true in every sense. Together they created a life filled with kindness, generosity, and love that touched everyone fortunate enough to know them.

May Avis’s memory bring comfort to all who knew and loved her.

She is survived by her son, Brad L. Fisher, Chicago IL; daughter, Sheila A. Fisher, Cortland OH; grandchildren, Corie J. (Eric Collins) and Matthew R. (Heather)Hlifka; and great-grandchildren, Shawn-Dylan Waid, Alex Bates, Makayla and Makenzie Hlifka, Kohlten Comer; and their “adopted daughters” Debbie Beltz & Michelle Stineman.

Avis was preceded in death by her beloved husband of 70 years, Richard C. Fisher; her parents, Lawrence H. and Nelle J. (Cross) Armstrong; and her siblings Rissie, Mamie, Sterling, George, Georgia, Ruby, and Charles (Edgar). Several dear and cherished nieces, nephews, and cousins.

Our love and kindness go to Michelle, who has cared for Richard and Avis Fisher over the past decade, and to all the special women who dedicate their lives to caring for families in need and have touched our hearts.

Visitation will be on Friday, February 14th 2025, at D.O. McComb & Sons Funeral Homes - Covington Knolls, 8325 Covington Road, Ft. Wayne IN, 46804, from 11:00 AM - 12:00 PM, with a Funeral Service to follow. Interment at Lindenwood Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers the Fisher & Hlifka family ask for donations to be made “to the kids” at Shriners Children's Hospital, please see link below. Thank You All.