Elizabeth Anne Bohlander

Elizabeth A. "Beth" Bohlander, 81, passed away on November 8, 2026, following a brief illness. Beth was born in Alexandria, Louisiana, on October 6, 1945, to William S. Shively and Beatrice V. Wiford and grew up in Cincinnati, Ohio. She was preceded in death by her parents and survived by her brother, William Shively, of Cincinnati.

Beth possessed a lifelong love of language and a natural gift for the written word. She delighted in exploring the origins and meanings of words, often weaving clever wordplay, colorful old expressions, and her distinctive sense of humor into everyday conversation. She put those talents to work during a nearly 30-year career as a writer and editor in the colleges of business and medicine at The Ohio State University. Knowing Beth, she would have reached for her red pen at least once while reading this obituary. She also enjoyed writing poetry, a creative pursuit she was content to keep largely to herself.

Creative, independent, and endlessly curious, Beth brought a discerning eye and remarkable craftsmanship to the world around her. She nearly single-handedly renovated her 1920s Clintonville home, creating a reflection of her personal tastes and talents. An avid gardener, she approached her plants with the same curiosity, carefully selecting, and experimenting with the varieties she cultivated. She loved music, particularly Bob Dylan, enjoyed classic films with an edge, and carried with her fond memories of time spent in San Francisco's Haight-Ashbury during the late 1960s.

Beth was quietly gracious, with a keen sense of humor and a generosity that seldom called attention to itself. She valued meaningful conversations and genuine connections, nurturing a close circle of friendships, many of which endured for over 60 years. Her kindness was often expressed through thoughtful gestures and an unassuming willingness to help others. Those who knew her appreciated her independent spirit, understated humor, and the quiet warmth of her friendship.

In her final days, Beth was surrounded by the care and companionship of dear friends Phyllis Baker, Megan Murray, and Tim Cain. She leaves behind a legacy measured by the lasting friendships she cultivated, the kindness she extended, and the unmistakable individuality she brought to the lives of those fortunate enough to know her.

A private gathering to celebrate Beth's life is being planned for a later date. Those wishing to honor Beth's memory are invited to consider a gift to OhioHealth Hospice House, whose compassionate staff cared for her during her final days. Arrangements have been entrusted to Schoedinger Funeral and Cremation Service.

'Then and Now'

If time were then

and we were now

I’d scoop you up

and set you down

in fields where then-and-now reside.

Where hearts are free

and pasts dissolve

and only dreams abide

where obligations dissipate

and troubles fall aside.

And in that vast and open space

I’d stretch you out

your soul to trace

the edges of the sky

your breath to brush the eagle’s wing

that’s soaring far and wide.

I’d show you places

open worlds

imprisoned in the flower

and wish you up

a perfect rose

to while away the hours.

-Beth Bohlander