Donna J. Rector

Donna “Jean” Rector (nee: Ramsier) passed away on October 5, 2011. She was 73 years old. Born on April 7, 1938 in Creston, Ohio, she was the oldest daughter in her family of seventeen children. “Jean” will be deeply missed and fondly remembered by all who knew her.

After graduating from Homerville High School, she went on to Kent State University to earn her degree in accounting and finance. She retired from the University of Akron in 1998, after many years of dedicated service. Jean also worked for many years as a realtor and maintained a private business helping small businesses and individuals with all things finance and tax related. She had a devoted clientele.

Most who knew Jean have said how she helped them at some point. Whether it was the purchase of their first home, an annual income tax return, a finance question answered, Jean was a go to gal for it all. Her older brother has many times referred to her as a rock. He is right. Her wisdom, insight and stamina were an inspiration to everyone.

Jean has left us all better people for having known her. May she rest in peace.

She was preceded in death by her parents, Ruth and Harold Ramsier, sisters; Vivian Beard and Shelley Ramsier and her brother Rex Ramsier. Jean is survived by her daughter, Laura (Ken) Buehner and granddaughters Lauren Petit and Helena Buehner of Akron. She is also survived by sisters; Dixie (Richard) Butdorf of Florida, Julia (John) Lee of West Salem, Jackie Biddle of Creston, Linda (Bill) Grassman of Wooster, Mary (Pat) Jackson of Mansfield, Darla Starling of Kentucky and Denise Bosche of Sullivan, sister in-law Betty Ramsier of Wooster and brothers; Donald Ramsier of Sullivan, Robert (Dorothy) Ramsier of Mt. Gilead, Lonnie Ramsier of West Salem, Dannie (Laurie) Ramsier of North Carolina, Gary (Sandra) Ramsier and Jim Ramsier of Colorado, brother in- law Edward Beard of Georgia and many nieces, nephews, relatives and friends.

Please accept our heartfelt gratitude for your love, support, friendship and prayers. Jean’s journey was difficult, but she surmounted nearly every obstacle presented with grace. Please consider making a contribution to the school or college of your choice in Jean’s honor.

Family will receive friends Monday, October 10th from 5pm until 8pm at the Catavolos Funeral Home 3653 W. Market St. Fairlawn. A memorial service will be held Tuesday, October 11th at 10:30am in the Chapel of the Mausoleum at Rose Hill Burial Park (Please meet at gate).