Lois Rabley

FT. MYERS, FL -- Lois L. Rabley, age 83, of Fort Myers, FL., and Lima, OH, passed away peacefully on Monday, January 19, 2026, at home. She was born on June 4, 1942, in Celina, Mercer County, to the late Howard L. and Alice E. (Bushman) Ruese. On April 4, 1964, she married Carl "Butch" Rabley, who survives her in both Fort Myers and Lima.

Lois is survived by her two sons, Brad (Heather) Rabley of Fort Myers, FL, and Keith (Jenny) Rabley of Marysville, OH; four grandchildren, Kellie Tucker, Logan Rabley, Ryker Rabley, and Rhett Rabley; and two great grandchildren, Riley and Wayland Tucker. She is also survived by a sister-in-law, Carol Ruese; nephew, Tim Ruese; and niece, Suzanne Weber. She was preceded in death by her infant son, Brent Matthew Rabley; her brother, Donald Ruese; and her niece, Caren Reese.

A proud graduate of New Bremen High School, St. Rita's School of Nursing, Defiance College, and the University of Dayton, Lois dedicated more than forty years of her life to St. Rita's Medical Center. She served in numerous nursing and administrative roles, always with compassion, professionalism, and a deep commitment to patient care. Even after retirement, she remained active with the St. Rita's auxiliary and alumni associations, cherishing the lifelong friendships she built there.

Lois had a natural flair for fashion and delighted in finding the perfect outfit, especially for family reunions, alumni banquets, milestone celebrations, and her many travels. She was a devoted wife, loving mother, grandmother, great grandmother, sister, and a loyal friend to many within the nursing community and her church families. Her faith was an important part of her life, and she treasured her connections with St. Paul's United Methodist Church in Elida and St. Paul's United Church of Christ in New Bremen.

Above all, Lois adored her family. She will be remembered for her unwavering work ethic, her spiritual presence, her joy in family gatherings, and her legendary generosity, especially at Christmastime. Her legacy lives on in the family she nurtured, the patients she cared for, and the countless lives she touched with kindness and grace.

Her visitation will be held from 10:00am-12:00pm Saturday, January 31 at the Chiles- Laman Funeral and Cremation Services, Shawnee Chapel. A memorial service will take place after the visitation with Pastor Paul Scannell officiating, followed by a graveside service at Greenlawn Cemetery in Elida, OH.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions will be accepted by St. Rita's Auxiliary.