Thomas Roth

Thomas Eugene "Tom" Roth

March 10, 1940 – January 31, 2026

Thomas Eugene "Tom" Roth, 85, of New Albany, Ohio, passed away Saturday, January 31, 2026, at his home after a courageous battle with lymphoma. He was born March 10, 1940, at Twin City Hospital in Dennison, Ohio, to the late Ward and Mary Katherine (Richards) Roth.

A lifelong Methodist, Tom was most recently a member of New Albany United Methodist Church. He graduated from Gnadenhutten High School in 1958 as part of a class of 31 students and later attended Columbus Business University to study accounting.

Tom dedicated his entire career to the banking industry, a profession that suited his methodical mind and genuine interest in people. He began as a teller in 1958 at his hometown community bank in Gnadenhutten. After five years, he and Joan moved to Bowling Green, Ohio, where he worked another five years. Missing family, they returned to the area and settled in Dover in 1970. He continued his banking career there until retiring from Chase Bank on February 29, 1996—a leap day that seemed fitting for a man who always did things his own way. He retired early to care for his first wife, Joan, during her illness, a decision he never second-guessed.

Tom was actively involved in his community throughout his life. He served as a member of the Jaycees and Kiwanis, and sat on the Tuscarawas County United Way Board, chairing it in his final year of service. He was also a faithful member of the legendary Dover "book club"—a group of lifelong friends who gathered regularly for friendship, lively conversation, and spirited games of poker. (The books were optional; the camaraderie was not.)

Those who knew Tom appreciated his bone-dry sense of humor. He could deliver a joke with such a straight face that only those closest to him could tell when he was being serious—and sometimes even they weren't sure.

In retirement, Tom enjoyed golfing, reading, working puzzles, and wood carving.

Tom married his high school sweetheart, Joan E. Kohl, on July 17, 1960. They shared 36 years of marriage, raising their family and building a life together, before Joan's passing on December 7, 1996.

On September 7, 1999, Tom married Janet S. Zanon, and they enjoyed over 26 wonderful years together. As a couple, along with the close group of friends they had accumulated over the years, they embarked on many adventures. Beginning with a cruise around the world in 1999, they went on to explore tropical islands, Alaska, and countless other beautiful destinations near and far. Annual trips to Florida became a treasured tradition, where they reconnected with friends old and new.

Tom is survived by his wife, Janet S. Roth of New Albany; daughters Kathy A. (Craig) Obrecht and Susan Roth; stepchildren Stacy (Mike) Kochman and Matt (Ashley) Baker, grandchildren Crystal (Wes) Brown, Cynthia (Jason) Strand, Madelyn and Maya Roth-Wadsworth, Zoe, Zadie, and Xander Baker, and great-grandchildren Leighja and Cardae Brown and Kennedy Strand. Brothers and Sisters in laws: Jayne and Roger Huebner, Scott and Susan Zanon, Jim and Molly Kohl and Bill and Vicky Kohl.

In addition to his parents, Tom was preceded in death by his first wife, Joan E. (Kohl) Roth, and his brother, Dave Roth.

A private service was held in Gnadenhutten, Ohio with Pastor Mike Pratt officiating, followed by a burial at Gnadenhutten-Clay Union Cemetery. The family is grateful for the outpouring of love and support.

In lieu of flowers, a memorial contribution may be made to New Albany United Methodist Church, 20 3rd St New Albany, Ohio 43054 or Capital City Hospice, 2800 Corporate Exchange Drive, Suite 170, Columbus, Ohio 43231.

Arrangements entrusted to Koch Funeral Home, Gnadenhutten, Ohio.