Ann Huntsman

Virginia Ann Huntsman, 90 passed away peacefully on July 23, 2025.

Born October 9, 1934 in Zanesville, OH, she was the eldest daughter of the late Pauline Leota (Orr) and Nelson Benjamin Young. She graduated from Lash High School (now Zanesville High School) in 1952 and later earned her degree in Education from Miami University, where she formed lifelong friendships with her college roommates. Ann also received her Master’s Degree in Education from Ohio University.

On March 30, 1956, she married Leonard G. Huntsman. Together, they raised three daughters: Carol Friel of Zanesville, Beth (Fred) Bronkar of Zanesville, and Susan Long of Columbus, OH.

Ann began her teaching career at Springfield Elementary School and later taught Kindergarten and Fourth Grade at Pioneer Elementary School. She retired after more than 30 years of dedicated service, remembered fondly by generations of students.

Through the years Ann was an active member of Grace United Methodist Church. While living in Columbus, you could find her volunteering through CAPA at The Ohio and Palace Theater’s, Picnic with the Pops, and The Memorial Tournament.

A lifelong learner and adventurer, Ann inherited her mother’s deep curiosity about the world. Among her many memorable journeys, one of her favorites was a trip to North Dakota with her daughters—an experience that marked the completion of her goal to visit all 50 states. Her travels extended far beyond the U.S., taking her to Europe, the Great Wall of China, and Hong Kong, along with numerous excursions along the East Coast.

Ann’s zest for life was matched by her passion for knowledge. She was an avid solver of crossword puzzles, a devoted fan of Jeopardy!, and a lifelong supporter of the Cincinnati Reds. Her inquisitive spirit and love of learning left a lasting impression on all who knew her.

To many, she was known as Ann or Mrs. Huntsman, but to her grandchildren, great-grandchildren, and Susan’s friends, she was affectionately called “Grama Sue”—a nickname with a story worth asking about.

Ann is survived by her three daughters and six beloved grandchildren: Leigh-Anne (Justin) Moodley of Columbus, Kevin Friel of Charlotte, NC, Matthew (Kristin) Bronkar of Pittsburgh, PA, Jennifer (Brian) Cook of Columbus, Brian (Jordan) Long of Denver, CO, and Erin Long of Cincinnati, OH. She also leaves behind six cherished great-grandchildren: Aidan Bronkar, Porter Moodley, Harper Moodley, Penn Bronkar, Lennon Bronkar, and Finlay Cook.

In addition to her immediate family, Ann is survived by her in-laws William and Mary Downey, and Juanita Huntsman, all of whom held a special place in her heart.

She was preceded in death by her husband Leonard, her parents, her son-in-law James Friel, her sister and brother-in-law Martha and Harry Flowers, her niece Karen Flowers, and in-laws Esther & Bob Latham, Merle & Bill Huntsman and Jerry Huntsman.

Friends and family may call from 4:00 PM to 7:00 PM on Friday, July 25, 2025 at BOLIN-DIERKES FUNERAL HOME, 1271 BLUE AVENUE, ZANESVILLE, and one hour prior to the time of service starting at 11:00 AM on Saturday, July 26, 2025, with Pastor Karen Montgomery officiating. She will be laid to rest at Zanesville Memorial Park Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, please make memorial contributions to Grace United Methodist Church (Zanesville), Look Up Center (lookupcenter.org) and Nationwide Children’s Hospital Butterfly Guild Auxiliary (https://www.nationwidechildrens.org/giving/ways-to-give/affinity-groups/butterfly-guild).

To send a note of condolence, or to order comfort food: visit www.bolindierkesfuneralhome.com, follow us on Facebook, or call our professional staff at (740)452-4551.