Rita J. Brindley

Rita Joan Brindley, 91, of Dennison, Ohio, passed away following a sudden illness on Tuesday, January 13, 2026, at Cleveland Clinic Union Hospital in Dover, Ohio. Born September 26, 1934 in Lewisville, Ohio, she was a daughter of the late Harry Henry Pickens and Mary Eugenia (née, Lopeman) Busch Pickens.

A proud resident of Dennison throughout her life, Rita was a faithful member of Immaculate Conception Church where she had served as the church secretary for ten years. She was also active in the church’s Altar Society and many other facets of her parish’s life. She was a 1952 graduate of St. Mary’s High School and had served on the Alumni Committee for many years. She was also a past member of its school board. Rita was a loving wife, mother, grandmother, and homemaker who served her community as the Village Deputy Clerk in Dennison for many years, while still taking wonderful care of her family. She was a devout fan of The Ohio State University’s Buckeye sports teams and the late, great Elvis Presley.

On December 26, 1953, she married Jack Vern Brindley, Sr. with whom she enjoyed nearly forty years of marriage until his passing on April 28, 1993. They were blessed with six children who survive them, Jack V. (Pam) Brindley, Jr. of Dennison, Brenda M. Long of Miami, Florida, Robert F. (Lisa) Brindley of New Philadelphia, Richard A. (Beth) Brindley of Ashland, Ohio, Jeffrey M. (Kathy) Brindley of Dennison, and Susan M. (Randy) Burdette of Dennison; 19 grandchildren; 28 great-grandchildren; and a great-great-grandson. Rita is also survived by her sister and brother-in-law, Donna and Ronald Ross of Dennison, and many dear nieces and nephews and their families. In addition to her parents and husband, she was preceded in death by her brothers, Harry Busch, Karl Busch, Bill Busch, Harold Busch, and Thomas Pickens, and sister, Janet Bargar.

According to Rita’s wishes, cremation is planned prior to her interment in St. Mary’s Cemetery near Dennison. Father Jeff Coning will celebrate the funeral Mass on Monday, January 19, at 11:00 a.m. in Immaculate Conception Church in Dennison where her family will receive callers from 9:45 a.m. to 10:45 a.m., prior to the beginning of the service. In lieu of flowers, those wishing to honor Rita’s memory are encouraged to do so by a donation to Immaculate Conception Church.