Oretha Jean (Penix) Zickefoose

Oretha Jean Zickefoose, 87, passed away peacefully Nov. 18, 2023. She was born Oct. 20, 1936, to John and Goldie Penix.

She grew up in Inez, KY, and after graduating high school, would move to Ohio.  She was very talented and enjoyed so many different hobbies. Their home was adorned with her flowers and love for gardening. She also was an avid reader. Family was important to them and they enjoyed hosting many wonderful reunions.

They traveled extensively to all of the 50 states and to many countries overseas. One thing she'll be remembered for was her love of Christmas! Everything about it!  Christmas will never be quite the same without her.  She retired from the Univ of Akron as a secretary to the Dean of Education and loved her job as she said the students kept her young!

Oretha was preceded in death by her parents; her husband, Darold of 56 years; daughter, Debbie; granddaughter, Sarah; and sister, Omega.

She is survived by children, Lela (Ken) Marana, Keith (Sandy) Zickefoose and Gina (John) Darmstadt; grandchildren, Shawn Blackburn, Seth Marana, Ethan Marana, Kelly Zickefoose, Emily Zickefoose and Hannah Zickefoose. She is also survived by 6 great-grandchildren and her sisters, Gertrude (Phil) Kimble, Jenny Spade, Gail Berkheimer, Sharon (Dave) Harris and Karen (Joe) Hydeck.

She loved her family and friends with all of her heart. Her and dad had a long, wonderful life together and we were blessed to have such wonderful parents. We take comfort in that they are together again.

Visitation will be 5:00 until 7:00 p.m. Friday, November 24, 2023 at the Donovan Funeral Home, 17 Southwest Ave. (On the Historic Tallmadge Circle).

Funeral Service will be 10:30 a.m.  Saturday, November 25, 2023 at the funeral home with Ethan Marana officiating.

Interment will be at Tallmadge Cemetery.