Elnora "Ellie" Jean Persinger

Elnora “Ellie” Jean Persinger, age 84, of Wooster, Ohio, passed away on June 11, 2025, in Livingston, Tennessee. Ellie was born on September 22, 1940, in Bellaire, Ohio, to Alfred and Nellie (Townsend) Horvath. She was a 1958 graduate of Powhatan High School. On October 17, 1959, she married the love of her life, Gary Ronald Persinger. Ellie spent many years working at Bell and Howell in Wooster, retiring in 1999. In addition to her professional life, Ellie was a gifted artist who found joy in working with many mediums, including pastel, watercolor, photography, and oil painting. She never missed a chance to snap a photograph of the people she loved. Her creativity and eye for beauty touched all who knew her.

Above all, Ellie was a devoted mother and grandmother who created a home full of love, laughter, and music. Her grandchildren will forever remember her signature lipstick kisses—loud, smoochy, and joyfully given. She loved painting their nails, hosting sleepovers, and making everyday moments feel special. Ellie made her home a magical place for the children in her life, and her warmth and playful spirit will be cherished always.

She will be deeply missed by her five children: Gary Persinger, Brian Persinger and wife Dawn, Debby Persinger, Danny Persinger and wife Michelle, and Carl Persinger; her seven grandchildren: Dylan Persinger and wife Ashley, Emily Wright and husband Evan, Lauren Shill and husband Cody, Kate Richardson and husband Ian, Brian Persinger II, Hailey Persinger, and Robbie Persinger; and her five great-grandchildren: Emmett Richardson, Quinn Richardson, Violet Shill, Carter Shill, and Willow Persinger. Ellie is also survived by her beloved siblings: Christine Dobson, Janice Davis, Brenda Grimes, and Marty Horvath, along with numerous nieces, nephews, extended family members, and friends. She was preceded in death by her husband, Gary Ronald Persinger, and her parents, Alfred and Nellie Horvath. Ellie’s life was a beautiful tapestry of family, art, music, and joy—her spirit will live on in the hearts of all who loved her.

Memorial services will be Tuesday, June 24 at 3:00pm at Roberts Funeral Home, 7067 Cleveland Rd, Wooster with Pastor Kirk Fairhurst officiating. Inurnment will be at Sherwood Memorial Gardens, Wooster.