Photo courtesy of Geo. H. Rohde & Son Funeral Home - Cincinnati
Cincinnati, Ohio
Oct 3, 1946 – Oct 23, 2024
Martha Hillenbrand Ragland of Cincinnati, Ohio passed away on October 23, 2024 at the age of 78. She is survived by her husband of 56 years, Nick Ragland, along with their five sons: Nick (Joelle) Ragland, Pete (Erin) Ragland, Jake (Jen) Ragland, Joe (Sophie) Ragland and Eric (Courtney) Ragland. Also survived by 17 grandchildren: Luke, Holly, Alex, Liza, Sydney, Molly, Charlie, John, Cecilia, Chloe, William, Andrew, Mac, Georgie, Hudson, Kiki and Griffin. She is also survived by her siblings: Gus (Nancy) Hillenbrand and Kate (Larry) Kennedy. Her brother, Dick Hillenbrand, predeceased her. Marty is survived by many loving nieces and nephews.
Marty was born in Batesville, Indiana, the daughter of William and Martha (Heidacher) Hillenbrand on October 3, 1946. She was a graduate of Sacred Heart Academy and St. Louis University. Marty had a background in Speech Communication and Education. Moving to Cincinnati as a young mother, she joined the Junior League where she learned the importance of community service as a volunteer/docent at: Krohn Conservatory, Museum of Natural History, Cincinnati Art Museum, St. John’s Social Service Center, Tender Mercies and as a Board Member of: Summit Country Day School, Beechwood Home, Cincinnati Ballet and the Cincinnati Art Museum. She was Board President and Board Chair of the Cincinnati Art Museum from 2011 – 2015 and was elected Emeritus Trustee in 2018. Her passion for art and music inspired her to paint and play the piano. It was a gift she shared with friends and family. Sports and wellness were an important part of her life. Golf, pickleball, tennis, skiing, hiking, biking and horseback riding were activities she loved. Marty loved travelling and sharing adventures with family and friends.
Mass of Christian burial will be held on Monday, November 4 at 10:00 am at St. Rose of Lima Church 2501 Riverside Drive, Cincinnati, Ohio. Visitation will be held on Sunday, November 3 from 4:00 – 7:00 pm at Cincinnati Country Club (Sports Activity Building) 2348 Grandin Road Cincinnati, Ohio. In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to Cincinnati Cancer Advisors at cincinnaticanceradvisors.org.
Read MoreMarty was a brilliant light shining in some of the darkest hours around southwest Ohio. She gracefully paved the way forward, generously sharing her time and resources, leading strategic growth activities, and mentoring many who now lead premier arts institutions in and around southwest Ohio. We are blessed to have known and worked with Marty. Rance and Marilyn Duke
Rance Duke
November 08, 2024 | Glendale, OH | Friend
It was always a joy to speak with Marty when she and Nick dined at the Oldenburg Brau Haus.
Tony Voegele
November 08, 2024 | Batesville, IN | Friend
Comfort Planter
From your home caregivers!
November 03, 2024
My deepest sympathy to Mr. Ragland, Nick Jr., Pete, Jake, Joe, Eric, other family, and friends for the loss of such a beautiful woman! I was blessed to meet you all. I will keep you all in prayers ❤
Deborah Overly
November 03, 2024 | Cincinnati, OH
Marty was a beautiful light at the art museum. She was so passionate about art and the joy of community. I truly enjoyed knowing her.
Cheryl Stamm
November 01, 2024 | Cincinnati, OH | Acquaintance
To the Ragland and Hillenbrand extended family, I am so sorry for your loss. Marty was truly an inspiration to all of us older lady athletes who wanted to "Be Like Marty" with energy, activity, and joy, and passion for whatever she was involved with and her many charitable contributions. We miss you so much already. Love you. Cindy
cindy cassell
October 31, 2024 | NEW RICHMOND, OH | Friend
Treasured Tribute Wreath
McMurtrie Family
October 29, 2024
Marty was a roommate of mine at Sacred Hear Academy back in the 60s. We had a mini reunion of our class several years ago that was hosted by Marty - she was still the ever beautiful and gracious woman that she had been in high school. A Special angel went to heaven this past week .thoughts and prayers to her wonderful family and loved ones
Pam Mckiernan Wirrenbrook
October 29, 2024 | CA | Friend
God Bless the Ragland and Hillenbrand families. What a monumental and unfair loss to this world. Mrs. Ragland was one of the best and most generous people I have ever met. The world is dimmer without her in it. What a treasure, and fond memories will always be had.
To Mr. Ragland, Nick, Pete, Jake, Joe, Eric, Joelle, Erin, Jen, Sophie, Courtney, all the grandkids, all family and all loved ones - The Marquez family is so deeply sorry.
David Marquez
October 29, 2024 | Cleveland, OH | Friend