Gretchen Pauletta Young, born December 29, 1945, passed away on January 25, 2026.
She was preceded in death by her parents, Marion and Mason Young; her first husband and the father of her children, Samuel E. Young Sr.; her firstborn son, Baby Young; her daughter, Sandra Kay Ford; and her brother, Raymond Humble.
She is survived by her longtime boyfriend, Rodney Spears; her sons, Samuel Young Jr. (Pam Golden) and Steven (Hannah) Young; son-in-law, Steve Lenihan; and her beloved grandchildren, Joshua Ford, Tiffani, Alexis, Memory, Kamden, Brantley, and Jessa Young.
In her younger years, Gretchen enjoyed keeping her home and working in nursing homes, where her caring nature shined. She loved hosting cookouts and bringing family together, finding her greatest joy in being surrounded by those she loved.
As she grew older, her love for family never faded, though her hobbies evolved. She treasured watching her grandchildren participate in school activities, spending time talking with them, letting them give her playful “makeovers,” and creating lasting memories together. Over the years, she enjoyed many trips with her family, including visits to Kentucky, Kings Island, the Columbus Zoo, and one of her all-time favorites, the Circleville Pumpkin Show.
As travel became harder on her body, Gretchen found comfort and joy in quieter moments—watching her favorite TV shows, completing word search books, and simply enjoying time with loved ones.
She will be deeply missed and forever remembered for her love of family, her gentle spirit, and the memories she leaves behind.
Psalm 34:18 (KJV)
“The Lord is nigh unto them that are of a broken heart; and saveth such as be of a contrite spirit.”
Revelation 21:4 (KJV)
“And God shall wipe away all tears from their eyes; and there shall be no more death, neither sorrow, nor crying, neither shall there be any more pain: for the former things are passed away.”
The family is asking for donations to the Funeral Home to assist them during this difficult time.
Visitation Tuesday, February 17, 2026 from 9:30 am until the time of Funeral Service at 11:30am at Newcomer, SW Chapel, 3393 Broadway, Grove City, OH 43123.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
3393 Broadway, Grove City, OH 43123

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