Rita Charlene Wentzel Crellin, 79, of Batavia, Ohio, passed away peacefully on September 6, 2026, surrounded by her loving children and devoted husband, after a courageous battle with lung cancer.

 

Born on August 19, 1947, in Cincinnati, Ohio, Rita was the daughter of the late Edith Epperson Wentzel and Charles Wentzel. She grew up in Cincinnati, graduating from Woodward High School. It was in her beloved hometown that she met the love of her life, Thomas Crellin. The two were married and shared over 50 beautiful years together. Truly soulmates, their marriage was defined by a deep love, unwavering devotion, and a lifetime of shared adventures.

 

Rita dedicated over 30 years of her life to her career as a bookkeeper. She was highly respected by colleagues and clients alike for her impeccable work ethic, meticulous attention to detail, and a trademark willingness to take on any task given to her with grace and determination.

 

Upon retiring, Rita embraced life with enthusiasm. She loved traveling, especially alongside Tom and their senior group, and she thoroughly enjoyed the companionship and community of her women's senior organization. An outdoor enthusiast at heart, Rita also had a passion for all sports-though her absolute favorite teams to cheer for were any that featured her children and grandchildren.

 

Above all, Rita was the strong matriarch of her family. She was their steady anchor, always ready with wise advice, a kind word, or quiet, powerful support. Her generosity knew no bounds; she gave freely of her time, her means, and her immense love.

 

She was preceded in death by her parents, Edith and Charles Wentzel, and her sisters, Patricia Bullock and Mary Lou Henry.

 

Rita's legacy of love lives on through her devoted husband, Tom Crellin; her loving children, Stephanie Crellin Wermes (Joseph Wermes), Brian Crellin (Amanda Ackley Crellin), and Charles Crellin (Elizabeth Crellin); and her nine cherished grandchildren, Trey, Justin, Ronnie, Evie, Brina, Kate, Owen, Nolan, and Dalton.

 

A visitation will be held on Thursday, September 10, 2026, beginning at 9:30 AM at Spring Grove Funeral Homes - Willow Room, with the funeral service and burial immediately following. A catered lunch will be held at Spring Grove Event Center after the burial for family and friends to gather, share memories, and honor her beautiful life.

 

In lieu of flowers, Rita requested that memorial donations be made in her honor to Suncrest Hospice, 9277 Centre Pointe Dr #160, West Chester, OH 45069, to support the compassionate care they provide to families.

 

 

To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of Rita, please visit our floral store.