Josephine M. "Rance" Whinery

SALEM - Josephine M. Whinery, 89, passed away on January 13, 2026, at Parkside Health Care Center in Columbiana.

Josephine was born on February 24, 1936 in Leetonia, Ohio, the daughter of Joseph and Jenny (Girard) Rance.

Affectionately known to many as "Jo," she was a graduate of Leetonia High School. On October 25, 1968, she married Ray E. Whinery, and they celebrated 18 years of marriage until Ray's passing on April 15, 1986. In additon to be being a dedicated wife and homemaker, Jo worked as a secretary for Fordees Manufacturing in Leetonia and later for Rance Industries in Columbiana.

Although Jo never had children of her own, she embraced and adored her role as an aunt with open arms and a heart full of love. She enjoyed spending quality time with her nieces and nephews any chance she got.

Left to honor Jo's memory are her siblings, Carmella (Robert) Balevre, John (Karen) Rance, and James Rance, all of Leetonia; and her many special nieces and nephews and great-nieces and great-nephews, each of whom she adored as if they were her own.

In addition to her parents and husband, Jo was preceded in death by her siblings, Shirley Justice, Helen Shaffer, and Paul Rance.

A private committal service for the family will be held at Woodsdale Cemetery.

Arrangements are being handled by Stark Memorial Funeral Home and Cremation Services.

To view Josephine's obituary, send condolences, or order flowers, visit www.starkmemorial.com.