Rachel B. Wires

Devoted mother, doting grandmother and determined Bingo player, Rachel B. Wires, 86, of New Philadelphia died Thursday, February 9, 2006 in Union Hospital.

She was born on February 28, 1919, the daughter of the late James & Pearl Walker Ritenour.

The title “Homemaker” does not begin to scratch the surface on what Rachel really meant to her family. Rachel�(TM)s husband, the late James P. Wires, died in 1956 while working in the Coshocton area, leaving the rearing of their six children completely to her. Over the years she placed a strong work ethic, and instilled the importance of family in each of them.

She enjoyed life�(TM)s simple pleasures �" spending free time with her grandchildren, a trip to the root beer stand, and just sitting on the porch relaxing with family and friends. Like the trait she passed along to her daughters, she had quite a personality. You always knew where she stood on an issue. And of course, there was Bingo. She would play Bingo anywhere, anytime and with just about anyone. She was a serious player who often played with as many as 36 cards at any given time.

A void will be felt in the hearts of those whose lives she touched. Surviving family members include: four daughters, Lana (Gary) Mosberger of East Sparta, Jeri (Ralph) Sell of Bowerston, Laura (Larry) Sellards of Sherrodsville, and Shelly (Vance) Morris of New Philadelphia; two sons, James Paul (Regina) Wires of Roswell, and Lewis Wires of New Philadelphia; two step children, Colleen (Harold) Downing of Columbus, and Tom Rees of Arizona. Several grandchildren, great grandchildren and great-great grandchildren whom she loved dearly also survive Rachel.

In addition to her parents and husband, she was preceded in death by 15 siblings and a granddaughter.

Her life will be celebrated in a public graveside service on Saturday, February 11, at 1:30 p.m. in the East Avenue Cemetery in New Philadelphia. Pastor Tim Billiter will officiate. Following the ceremony, family and friends will be received at a fellowship meal held in the Toland-Herzig Monarch Center.

Those unable to attend or wishing to share a fond memory may sign the online register book for Rachel by visiting the “obituaries” link on the funeral home�(TM)s website.

The family suggests that memorial gifts be made in Rachel�(TM)s name to the Lake Drive Fellowship, 8158 Lake Dr NE, Mineral City, Ohio 44656.

Toland-Herzig Funeral Home & Crematory in New Philadelphia is handling arrangements.

Toland-Herzig
(330) 343-8131
www.tolandherzig.com