Thomas Deroy Ransbottom

Thomas Deroy Ransbottom
September 28, 1940 - October 4, 2026

Thomas Deroy Ransbottom, 86, of Rockford, Ohio, passed away peacefully at Tranquility of Rockford on October 4, 2026.

Tom was born September 28, 1940, in Celina, Ohio, to the late Olen C. and Mildred O. (Fast) Ransbottom. He was a lifelong educator and a devoted husband, father and grandfather.

Tom graduated from Wilmington College with a bachelor's degree in Industrial Arts, with minors in Physical Education and Driver Education. He lettered in football all four years and later earned his Master of Education from Miami University.

Tom spent 34 years in education, where he did much more than teach. He encouraged his students to think big, work hard, respect others, and use their talents to the fullest.

His career began at Hardin Northern before spending 30 years teaching Industrial Arts at St. Henry High School. Tom was devoted to developing the potential of his students and held weekly Open Shop Nights, giving students additional opportunities to learn and work with their hands. He taught Driver Education and drove bus for 18 years. He was the founder of St. Henry football and served as their first head coach. Tom didn't just coach football-he built it. He laid out the field, constructed the press box, ticket booths, and goal posts, laying the foundation for a successful Redskin football program.

Tom received numerous honors, including Technology Teacher of the Year and the OTEA's State Teacher Excellence Award. He retired from education in 1996, but never retired from learning.

A talented woodworker, craftsman, and innovator, Tom invented the patented Super Bender, a tubing bender that was used in shop classes throughout the state. His creativity continued through Ranny Educational Productions, his videography business, where he documented weddings, special events, and countless memories throughout Mercer County. Rarely was Tom seen without a camera or camcorder in his hands. He was a man who loved to give-often gifting the many things he had made with his own hands.

Tom was a devoted husband to his beautiful wife & partner, Neva Lucille (Jolly) Ransbottom. They were married on July 12, 1969, and shared 57 years together. He was immensely proud of his children and grandchildren, who brought him tremendous joy.

He was a member of Rockford United Methodist Church and the Rockford Lions Club, as well as the Van Wert Area Cushman Club and the Masons Shanes Lodge No. 377. Tom enjoyed giving back through Mercer County 4-H, judging at local and state fairs and teaching at summer camps. He also enjoyed building the annual parade floats for Wabash Mutual Telephone.

Tom will be deeply missed by his wife, Neva; daughter, Joni (Dave) Oyer; sons, Scott (Angie) Ransbottom, Kent (Michelle) Ransbottom, and Chad (Kara) Ransbottom; grandchildren, Jordan (Anh) Oyer, Landon (Annie) Oyer, Madison (Caleb) Suciu, Claudia Ransbottom, Rachael Ransbottom, Trey (Kennedy) Ransbottom, and Destiny (Jacob) Schabbing; and 17 great-grandchildren.

He is survived by his sister, Nancy Smith; sister-in-law, Mary Kay Ransbottom.

He was preceded in death by his parents; his brother, Robert Ransbottom; brother-in-law, John Smith; and in-laws, Leonard and Irene Jolly.

Tom's life was one of curiosity, creativity, service, and love. He taught people to believe in their ideas, to work with their hands, to keep learning, and to never be afraid to think a little bigger. More importantly, he taught by example how to love your family, serve your community, and make the most out of life.

Funeral services will be conducted 11:00a Monday, October 12, 2026 at Rockford United Methodist Church, 202 South Franklin Street, Rockford, Ohio with Pastors Chip Steffy and Bill Halter officiating. Burial will follow at Riverside Cemetery.

The family will receive friends from 2:00p - 7:00p Sunday October 11, 2026 at Ketcham Ripley Funeral Home, 111 West First Street, Rockford, Ohio 45882. Friends may also call one hour prior to the funeral service, from 10:00a - 11:00a Monday October 12, at Rockford United Methodist Church.

Contributions in memory of Tom may be given to the Rockford United Methodist Church building fund, 202 South Franklin Street, Rockford, Ohio 45882.

Online condolences may be shared at www.ketchamripley.com.

Services have been entrusted to Ketcham Ripley Funeral Home, 111 West First Street, Rockford, Ohio 45882.