Marcella June (Bowman) Hoblit, of Greenville, Ohio passed from this earth into eternity on Tuesday, February 21, 2023, at the age of 90 years, one month, and 3 days. Marcella was born on January 18, 1933, in Miami County, Ohio, to her parents: David and Margaret (Schaefer) Bowman.
During most of her school days they lived in Miami County. When she was a junior in High School, her parents purchased a small farm in Darke County, near Palestine. Marcella graduated from Palestine High School in 1951.
She accepted Jesus Christ as her Savior, received salvation by faith, and was baptized on Aug 13, 1951. She was a faithful member of The Old German Baptist Brethren Church, New Conference, at the time of her death. Her and her husband faithfully served as deacons in the church as long as their health allowed. She was happily married to Ralph Edward Hoblit of Gettysburg, Ohio on March 29, 1952, at the home of her parents. To this union was born four children. They resided in the Gettysburg area a few years before purchasing her parent’s farm near Palestine in 1962. They lived here for over 57 years. She supported her husband in his occupations and many interests including farming, livestock, chickens and egg route, Hobart-Whirlpool, and his auctioneering / real estate business for over 50 years, as she managed his bookwork and clerking the many auctions. They both enjoyed working with people and made many friends among church associations, the auction business, and in the community. They enjoyed life and were truly reflectors of the Light of Jesus along their journey.
A few months after Ralph’s passing in April 2019, Marcella sold the homestead at Palestine and relocated to The Brethren Retirement Community, Greenville, Ohio, where she was living when she passed. Her health declined that Fall and though she rebounded some, she had many health challenges for the next 3 ½ years. Through her challenges, she remained very positive. Her mind was extremely sharp making her a joy to visit with and care for her. Due to a larynx problem, she spoke with a whisper the last few years. This soft voice complemented her graceful personality. Marcella is survived by her four children: Barbara & John Mohler, Bruce & Carla (Roesel) Hoblit, Becky Hoblit, and Barton & Lisa (Wagoner) Hoblit, ten grandchildren and their spouses, 16 great grandchildren, brother Tom and Charlene Bowman, sister-in-law Suzie Bowman, as well as numerous nieces, nephews, extended family, and friends. She dearly loved her family, friends, and church congregation, of whom she received over 140- 90 th Birthday cards recently. Her friendships meant so much to her.
Preceding her in death were her loving husband, her parents, and her siblings: baby sister Mary Elizabeth, Charlie & Eileen Rench, Bob & Ocie Bowman, Naomi & John Compton, and Dale Bowman. Also, many of her friends and family preceded her in death. She often spoke of Heaven and the great reunion day when she would be reunited with them again!
The family wishes to thank all who cared for her and encouraged her with visits and cards, especially those of her Bethel church congregation, the caregivers at BRC Oakview & Rosewood, Wayne Hospital, Reid Hospital, Everhart Hospice, and those at Zechar Bailey Funeral Home. A visitation will be held Sunday, February 26, from 3:00-5:00pm & 6:00 8:00pm at Zechar Bailey Funeral Home, 1499 N. Broadway (Rt 118), Greenville, Ohio 45331. The funeral service will held Monday, February 27, 10:00am at The Shiloh German Baptist New Conference Meeting House, located at 8340 Delisle – Fourman Rd, Arcanum, OH 45304. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions can be made to Everhart Hospice, Greenville, Ohio. Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be shared at www.zecharbailey.com for the Hoblit Family.
